Karnataka BJP chief urges Tamil Nadu CM to cooperate on Cauvery and Mekedatu

Karnataka BJP president Vijayendra sent a written appeal to Tamil Nadu chief minister Vijay, urging a cooperative resolution to the long-standing Cauvery water dispute and endorsement of Karnataka's Mekedatu reservoir scheme. The request follows a CWMA directive ordering Karnataka to supply 3,500 cusecs daily to Tamil Nadu for fifteen days, which has sparked protests in Karnataka and a Supreme Court petition by the DMK.

Vijayendra referenced historic compromises, including the Thiruvalluvar statue agreement between former leaders BS Yediyurappa and M Karunanidhi, to illustrate that contentious issues can be settled for the greater public good. He emphasized the river's importance to millions in Bengaluru and surrounding towns, especially amid erratic monsoons affecting farmers. The BJP chief argued that Mekedatu would address Bengaluru's water scarcity without compromising Tamil Nadu's legal entitlement, and that Tamil Nadu's support could symbolize inter-state cooperation. He concluded by urging Vijay to adopt a statesmanlike stance that protects Karnataka's genuine concerns while respecting Tamil Nadu's rights.