Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) president Anbumani Ramadoss criticized the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) for not ensuring Karnataka releases Tamil Nadu’s rightful share of water. He called for a fully empowered Cauvery Management Board to replace the current authority. Anbumani highlighted the CWMA’s failure to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests, especially in protecting kuruvai cultivation in the Cauvery delta.
Anbumani pointed out that Karnataka has released only 3.44 thousand million cubic feet (tmc ft) of water to Tamil Nadu since June, far below the mandated 28.30 tmc ft. This shortfall could significantly impact agricultural activities in the delta districts. He emphasized the need for timely Cauvery flows for paddy transplantation, which is crucial for farmers in the region.
The PMK leader criticized Karnataka for not adhering to the agreed water-sharing schedule and accused the CWMA of lacking the necessary enforcement powers. Anbumani stressed the importance of a stronger regulatory body with clear authority to oversee water release. He urged the Union government to establish a Cauvery Management Board with the required powers to regulate reservoir operations and ensure compliance with the tribunal’s award.
Anbumani also called on the Tamil Nadu government to pressure the Centre for the formation of the board. He suggested that legal action might be necessary to secure the State’s rightful share of Cauvery water. Structural reforms, according to Anbumani, are essential to address the recurring disputes over water sharing in the region.
