Chennai , 19 July (H.S.):

The DMK has renewed its opposition to Karnataka's proposed Mekedatu dam project by demanding an urgent discussion in Parliament during the Monsoon Session, which begins on Monday. The party has moved adjournment motions in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, maintaining that the project could adversely affect Tamil Nadu's share of Cauvery water and threaten the livelihood of farmers across the State.

The party said the proposed reservoir across the Cauvery cannot be viewed as an isolated infrastructure project, as it has significant implications for inter-state water sharing. It urged the Union Government to address Tamil Nadu's concerns before allowing any further progress on the project.

Seeking to bring the issue before Parliament at the earliest, DMK leaders have requested that normal business in both Houses be suspended for a dedicated debate. The party argued that the Mekedatu issue is of national importance as it involves the implementation of tribunal awards and the protection of the constitutional rights of states.

In the Lok Sabha, DMK Parliamentary Party leader T.R. Baalu submitted an adjournment motion, stating that Karnataka's proposal to construct a balancing reservoir at Mekedatu could adversely affect downstream water availability in Tamil Nadu. He said the project has the potential to impact irrigation, drinking water supply and the interests of lakhs of farmers dependent on the Cauvery.

DMK Rajya Sabha floor leader Tiruchi Siva also submitted a similar notice, seeking a discussion on the issue in the Upper House. The party hopes that raising the matter simultaneously in both Houses will draw wider national attention to Tamil Nadu's long-standing objections.

Ahead of the Monsoon Session, Chief Minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin held a virtual meeting with the party's Members of Parliament to finalise its parliamentary strategy. The Mekedatu project figured prominently in the discussions.

Following the meeting, Stalin said every DMK MP would strongly oppose Karnataka's attempt to construct the dam and defend Tamil Nadu's legitimate rights over the Cauvery. He added that the party would continue to examine every Bill introduced in Parliament from the perspective of protecting the Constitution, safeguarding the rights of states and ensuring that Tamil Nadu's interests remain protected.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman