Mekedatu Dam Dispute Intensifies: DMK Opposes Karnataka CM’s Remarks

The long-standing Mekedatu dam dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka has triggered fresh political tensions, with several political parties in Tamil Nadu strongly opposing Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s remarks. Speaking in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mysuru, Shivakumar reportedly said that no one could stop the construction of the Mekedatu dam and urged the Centre to grant final approval for the project. His comments have drawn strong criticism from the DMK in Tamil Nadu, which has raised concerns over the potential impact of the project on the state’s farmers and water interests.

DMK president and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin wrote to current Chief Minister Vijay, stating that Shivakumar’s remarks had triggered resentment among farmers in Tamil Nadu. He urged the state government not to remain silent and called for an all-party meeting to demonstrate unity among Tamils and opposition to Karnataka’s position. Former minister T.R.B. Rajaa also questioned the Congress party’s stand, pointing out that while the Congress government in Karnataka is pushing ahead with the Mekedatu project, the same party is part of the ruling alliance in Tamil Nadu. He demanded that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and the party leadership clarify their position on the issue.