New Delhi, July 28: Congress MP Manikam Tagore raised a notice for suspension of business in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday regarding the proposed Mekedatu project and the water rights of Tamil Nadu. He emphasized the urgency of discussing this critical issue by halting the proceedings of the House.
In his proposal sent to the Lok Sabha Secretariat, Tagore stated that the Cauvery River is not just a water source but the lifeline of Tamil Nadu. The river’s water is essential for the livelihoods of millions of farmers, the agricultural system of the Cauvery Delta, and the drinking water needs of countless people. Therefore, any construction, dam, reservoir, or project that could affect the flow of water to Tamil Nadu directly impacts the future and livelihoods of its people.
He expressed concern over a recent response from the Minister of State for Water Power, which has left the people of Tamil Nadu worried and disappointed. The minister stated that the Supreme Court‘s ruling does not require Karnataka to seek consent from downstream states for any construction on the Cauvery River. Tagore accused the central government of neglecting the genuine and legitimate concerns of Tamil Nadu.
In his proposal, Tagore stressed that this issue is not merely about permission or consent but about safeguarding Tamil Nadu’s legal rights. He insisted that the decisions of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal, later modified by the Supreme Court, must be fully adhered to. Additionally, any construction in the upper regions should not reduce or obstruct the water flow to Tamil Nadu.
He pointed out that no state can take steps regarding an interstate river that would affect the legal rights of another state. Tamil Nadu has the constitutional and legal right to oppose any construction or project that impacts its farmers, water security, and share of the Cauvery.
Tagore highlighted that Tamil Nadu’s farmers have faced uncertainty for decades due to the Cauvery water dispute. They should not live in fear that unilateral decisions made in the upper regions could jeopardize their farming, livelihoods, and future.
He claimed that the current stance of the central government has led to a perception in Tamil Nadu that farmers’ concerns are being ignored, and the center has failed to play a fair role in the federal structure. He asserted that it is the central government’s duty to treat all states equally and avoid actions that create imbalances or undermine public trust in the constitutional framework.
In his suspension proposal, Tagore made four key demands from the central government. He urged the government to clarify how it will protect Tamil Nadu’s interests in the Cauvery basin. He also insisted that no project should be approved that could affect Tamil Nadu’s designated share of Cauvery water or the implementation of the tribunal and Supreme Court’s orders. Furthermore, he demanded that all objections and concerns from Tamil Nadu regarding the Mekedatu project be seriously considered before any final decision is made, and that the central government act as a fair constitutional body to equally protect the rights of all states.
Tagore concluded by stating that Tamil Nadu will never remain silent on issues concerning the livelihoods of its farmers and the water security of its people. Every drop of the Cauvery River is precious, and every decision related to it affects the lives of millions. Therefore, the central government must ensure the full protection of Tamil Nadu’s constitutional rights while respecting the spirit of federalism.
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