Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) coordinator Seeman strongly criticized Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for dismissing Tamil Nadu’s authority to oppose the Mekedatu Dam project on the Cauvery River. Seeman labeled these statements as arrogant and an attempt to undermine Tamil Nadu’s historical and legal rights over the river.
In a statement, Seeman accused Karnataka of trying to gain full control over Cauvery River waters at Tamil Nadu’s expense through the Mekedatu dam project. He argued that such actions go against established principles of inter-state river water sharing and deprive downstream regions of their fair share of water resources.
Emphasizing the deep-rooted connection between the Cauvery River and Tamil Nadu, Seeman highlighted the river’s historical significance to Tamil society, predating the Kannada language and the formation of Karnataka state. He asserted that the river has been an integral part of Tamil civilization and culture for centuries, rejecting the notion of it being the exclusive property of a single state.
Seeman questioned Karnataka’s claim over the Cauvery River and pointed out that existing river water-sharing principles acknowledge the rights of downstream states. He stressed that downstream regions have a legitimate interest in the equitable distribution of river waters, validating Tamil Nadu’s concerns regarding projects like the Mekedatu dam.
Seeman criticized D.K. Shivakumar’s remarks as displaying a domineering attitude and disregard for Tamil Nadu’s interests, urging Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to officially denounce the Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister’s comments and take a strong stance against the construction of the Mekedatu dam.
The Mekedatu project has been a contentious issue between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu for years, with Tamil Nadu expressing worries that the proposed reservoir could impact the flow of Cauvery water to the state, affecting irrigation and drinking water needs.
