Supreme Court Relief on Mekedatu: Siddaramaiah Hails Shivakumar’s Leadership
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah welcomed the Supreme Court’s relief regarding the Mekedatu balancing reservoir project, describing it as a major step forward in addressing the state’s long-standing water needs. Soon after the order, he acknowledged the relentless efforts of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also holds the Water Resources portfolio, crediting him for consistently pushing the project at both political and administrative levels.
The Mekedatu project, designed to provide drinking water to Bengaluru and stabilize irrigation in the Cauvery basin, has long been stuck due to inter-state disputes and opposition from Tamil Nadu. With the latest Supreme Court development, Karnataka believes its position has strengthened significantly.
Siddaramaiah Slams BJP–JD(S) for ‘Silence’ on State’s Interests
Addressing reporters, the Chief Minister sharply criticized the BJP-JD(S) alliance, questioning their “convenient silence” on what he termed “injustice to Karnataka.” He also wondered why senior BJP leader and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi had not spoken on an issue of such critical importance to crores of people in the state.
According to Siddaramaiah, opposition parties selectively raise political issues but fail to stand with the government when it involves protecting Karnataka’s legal and constitutional rights over water.
Shivakumar’s Strategic Push for Mekedatu
D.K. Shivakumar, widely seen as the architect of Karnataka’s Mekedatu strategy, had repeatedly argued that:
The project would not harm Tamil Nadu,
It would benefit 1.25 crore people in Bengaluru,
And it is fully within the legal framework set by the Cauvery Water Tribunal and the Supreme Court.
The government maintains that the reservoir will help release water in a regulated manner, especially during distress years.
With the SC relief, Shivakumar’s position—both politically and administratively—has become stronger.
Why the Mekedatu Project Matters to Karnataka
Ensures drinking water security for Bengaluru
Reduces dependence on monsoon fluctuations
Supports farmers in the Cauvery basin
Improves drought management
Offers long-term water regulation capability
Experts note that the project is strategically important for Karnataka’s urban and rural needs for the next 50 years.
FAQs
1. What is the Mekedatu project?
The Mekedatu balancing reservoir is a proposed Karnataka project aimed at ensuring drinking water for Bengaluru and supporting irrigation in the Cauvery basin.
2. Why did Siddaramaiah praise D.K. Shivakumar?
Because Shivakumar has been leading the state’s efforts, legally and politically, to move the project forward despite opposition.
3. Why is the BJP-JD(S) being criticized?
Siddaramaiah alleges that despite being a strong coalition, they have remained silent on Karnataka’s water rights and have not supported the Mekedatu initiative.
4. How does the SC relief impact the project?
It strengthens Karnataka’s position, allowing it to advance with regulatory processes and push for project approvals.
5. Will Mekedatu affect Tamil Nadu’s water share?
Karnataka argues that the project will not reduce Tamil Nadu’s share; instead, it will regulate water release more efficiently.
Published on : 15TH November
Published by : SARANYA
Source Credit ; Sujay B M
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