“Ready To Be Humiliated”: Vijay-Stalin Junior War Of Words Over Mekedatu Dam
Chennai: A political face-off erupted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly as Chief Minister Vijay and Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin exchanged sharp words over the ongoing Mekedatu dam dispute with Karnataka.
The debate began after Udhayanidhi Stalin questioned the state government’s efforts to stop Karnataka from moving ahead with the proposed Mekedatu dam project across the Cauvery river. He asked the government to clarify what steps had been taken to protect Tamil Nadu’s water interests.
Responding to the criticism, Chief Minister Vijay said his government had already passed a resolution opposing the project and had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing Tamil Nadu’s concerns.
“We will do whatever is needed to safeguard the interests of Tamil Nadu farmers,” Vijay said, while also blaming the previous DMK government for its role in the early stages of the project.
War of words over all-party meeting
The disagreement intensified when Udhayanidhi Stalin questioned why the Vijay-led government was not calling an all-party meeting on the Mekedatu issue, similar to Karnataka where political parties had come together to present a united stand.
He also questioned reports about Vijay’s proposed visit to Bengaluru to discuss the matter with Karnataka leaders, saying such a move could weaken Tamil Nadu’s position.
Vijay defended his decision, saying dialogue with neighbouring states should not be viewed negatively.
“When countries with conflicts can sit together for talks, why can’t neighbouring states discuss issues? Even if I face criticism or humiliation, I am ready to take that step for the people of Tamil Nadu,” he said.
What is the Mekedatu dispute?
The Mekedatu dam project has been a long-running source of tension between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Karnataka says the project will help meet Bengaluru’s drinking water needs and generate electricity, while assuring that Tamil Nadu’s share of Cauvery water will not be affected.
Tamil Nadu, however, continues to oppose the project, arguing that it could impact its share of Cauvery river water. The state has raised objections before the central authorities, including the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Central Water Commission.
The political battle over the project highlights the continuing Cauvery water dispute between the two southern states.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
