Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, seeking urgent intervention on two critical issues: the Mekedatu drinking water project and the arrest of fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities. The meeting, held at the Prime Minister's office in New Delhi, lasted approximately 45 minutes.
Mekedatu Project Concerns
CM Vijay emphasized Tamil Nadu's strong opposition to the Mekedatu project proposed by Karnataka. He argued that the project would adversely affect the state's water share from the Cauvery river, as per the Supreme Court's final award. Vijay urged the Prime Minister to direct the Ministry of Water Resources to not grant any approval for the project without consulting Tamil Nadu.
Fishermen Arrests
The Chief Minister also raised the issue of Tamil Nadu fishermen being arrested by Sri Lankan Navy personnel. He requested the Centre's diplomatic intervention to secure the release of 23 fishermen and 87 fishing boats currently in Sri Lankan custody. Vijay called for a permanent solution to the recurring problem, including the revival of bilateral talks between India and Sri Lanka.
Invocation Song Demand
In a separate request, CM Vijay appealed to PM Modi to issue a clear directive allowing the Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu (invocation song) to be sung at the start of all government events in Tamil Nadu. He noted that the song, which celebrates Tamil language and culture, has been a subject of controversy, with some schools and government offices refusing to play it. Vijay stressed that the directive would uphold the state's cultural identity.
Other Discussions
The meeting also touched upon the release of pending funds under the National Disaster Response Fund for flood relief in Tamil Nadu. Vijay thanked the Prime Minister for the recent allocation of Rs 1,200 crore for the Chennai Metro Rail Phase II project. The Chief Minister handed over a detailed memorandum to PM Modi, outlining all the demands.
This was Vijay's first meeting with the Prime Minister since assuming office in May 2026. Political analysts view the meeting as a significant step in establishing a working relationship between the state government and the Centre.
