The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) intends to raise the Mekedatu Dam matter in Parliament during the upcoming Monsoon Session commencing on July 21. This strategic move comes as the party faces political challenges in Tamil Nadu, particularly with the emergence of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by Chief Minister Vijay.

Trichy Siva, a DMK Rajya Sabha member, stated on Saturday that the party would bring the issue to the attention of both Houses. He accused the Karnataka government of not adhering to existing directives concerning the release of Cauvery water and indicated that the DMK would press the Centre to establish a new tribunal to resolve the Mekedatu dispute.

Additionally, Siva mentioned that the party has already submitted adjournment motion notices in both Houses to demand a discussion on this crucial topic. The proposed Mekedatu Dam project is situated on the Cauvery River near its confluence with the Arkavathi River in the Kanakapura region of Ramanagara district.

Karnataka’s Position on the Dam Project

The Karnataka government has expressed that the Mekedatu project aims to address Bengaluru’s drinking water needs while also generating 400 megawatts of hydroelectric power. However, the DMK and the Tamil Nadu government have voiced strong opposition, contending that the project would disrupt the downstream flow of Cauvery water, adversely affecting farmers who rely on the river for irrigation.

In a unanimous resolution passed last month, the Tamil Nadu Assembly urged the Centre not to approve the project. The resolution characterised Karnataka’s initiative regarding the Rs 9,000-crore project as unilateral, alleging that it contravened the verdict of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal and subsequent Supreme Court rulings.

The dispute over the Mekedatu Dam continues to be a point of tension between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The DMK’s insistence on raising the issue in Parliament reflects its commitment to advocating for the interests of Tamil Nadu farmers and residents who may be affected by the project.

DMK’s Position on Proposed Delimitation Bill

In addition to the Mekedatu issue, Siva addressed the proposed Delimitation Bill, refuting claims that the DMK had changed its stance on the matter. He noted that the party is currently awaiting further clarification from the Centre regarding the proposal. This comes amidst speculation that the DMK may be reconsidering its position after earlier statements indicated the lack of a formal stance.

Congress MP P Chidambaram has alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is attempting to secure support from the DMK for the Delimitation Bill. Siva reiterated that the DMK would oppose any delimitation exercise that could diminish the parliamentary representation of southern states.

The party has expressed firm opposition to the bill in its present form if it threatens the representation of southern states. According to Siva, these states are already under-represented in the Indian Parliament, and any further reductions would undermine their political influence and voice.

The Centre is anticipated to introduce the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill during the Monsoon Session, which proposes an increase in Lok Sabha seats to 850 and establishes a foundation for a future delimitation exercise.

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