Palaniswami hits out at Karnataka CM over Mekedatu dam project

AIADMK leader and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami on Thursday took exception to remarks made by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding the Mekedatu dam project, signalling renewed political tension over the interstate water dispute.

Palaniswami's rebuke comes as Tamil Nadu continues to oppose Karnataka's plans for the multipurpose dam on the Cauvery River, a project that has remained a flashpoint between the two states for years. The AIADMK leader argued that the proposed dam would adversely affect Tamil Nadu's water security and agricultural interests downstream.

Criticising the current state administration, Palaniswami accused Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and his DMK government of maintaining silence on the issue and failing adequately to safeguard Tamil Nadu's interests in the interstate water-sharing dispute. He called on the state government to take a firmer stance in opposing the project at all appropriate forums.

The Mekedatu dam project has remained a contentious issue between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, with Tamil Nadu consistently arguing that the dam would reduce the quantum of water available to the state. The dispute underscores the broader Cauvery water-sharing conflict that has periodically erupted between the neighbouring states.