AMMK chief TTV Dhinakaran on Monday urged the Tamil Nadu government to file a contempt of court case against Karnataka in the Supreme Court for proceeding with the Mekedatu dam project, which he claims violates a 2016 apex court order. Dhinakaran argued that the project, aimed at providing drinking water to Bengaluru, would adversely affect Tamil Nadu's water share from the Cauvery River.
Background of the Dispute
The Mekedatu dam project, proposed by Karnataka across the Cauvery River, has been a bone of contention between the two states. Tamil Nadu contends that the project would impound water meant for its farmers, especially during drought years. In 2016, the Supreme Court directed that no new project be undertaken without its permission, a ruling that Dhinakaran says Karnataka has ignored.
“Karnataka is going ahead with the Mekedatu project despite the Supreme Court order. The Tamil Nadu government should immediately file a contempt petition,” Dhinakaran told reporters in Chennai. He further stated that the project would reduce the flow of water to Tamil Nadu by approximately 4.75 tmcft (thousand million cubic feet) annually.
Legal and Political Implications
The call for contempt proceedings comes amid heightened political tensions over water sharing. Dhinakaran, whose party is an ally of the ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu, has been critical of the state government's handling of the issue. He accused Karnataka of acting unilaterally and urged the central government to intervene. “The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal and the Supreme Court have clearly defined the water-sharing formula. Karnataka cannot violate it,” he added.
The Tamil Nadu government has previously raised objections before the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) and the Supreme Court. However, Dhinakaran argues that more aggressive legal action is needed. “Mere objections are not enough. We must file a contempt case to ensure compliance,” he said.
Impact on Water Resources
The Mekedatu dam, with a proposed capacity of 400 tmcft, is intended to supply drinking water to Bengaluru and generate hydroelectric power. Tamil Nadu fears that the project will reduce the water available downstream, particularly during the monsoon season. Experts note that the Cauvery basin has witnessed declining rainfall and increasing demand, making water-sharing disputes more acute.
According to the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal award, Tamil Nadu is entitled to 192 tmcft of water annually, while Karnataka gets 177 tmcft. Any new project that alters the flow could disrupt this allocation. The Supreme Court, in its 2018 verdict, upheld the tribunal's award with minor modifications and directed the formation of the CWMA to monitor implementation.
Political Reactions
Dhinakaran's demand has garnered support from some opposition parties in Tamil Nadu, who accuse the DMK government of being soft on Karnataka. “The state government must act tough. We cannot allow Karnataka to steal our water,” said a leader of the Pattali Makkal Katchi. Meanwhile, Karnataka officials maintain that the project is within its rights and will not affect Tamil Nadu's share.
The issue is likely to be raised in the upcoming assembly session in Tamil Nadu. Dhinakaran threatened to launch a statewide agitation if the government fails to take legal action. “We will not remain silent. The people of Tamil Nadu will fight for their water rights,” he warned.
