Tamil Nadu's Tribunal Plan Sparks Farmer Outrage
Tamil Nadu's proposal to establish a tribunal to address the Mekedatu project dispute has drawn sharp criticism from farmers, who fear it could delay resolution and harm their interests. Public Works Minister Aadhav Arjuna, a key spokesperson for the new administration, openly accused the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) of biased functioning, escalating tensions over the contentious project.
Minister Accuses CWMA of Bias
Speaking to reporters on June 22, 2026, Arjuna stated, "The CWMA has consistently favored Karnataka's position, ignoring Tamil Nadu's legitimate water needs. A tribunal is the only way to ensure fair adjudication." He emphasized that the state government would push for the tribunal's formation under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act. Farmers, however, expressed dismay, with many arguing that a tribunal would prolong the dispute. R. Krishnan, a farmer from Thanjavur, said, "We have been waiting for decades for a solution. A tribunal will only add more delays."
Background of the Mekedatu Project
The Mekedatu project, proposed by Karnataka, aims to build a reservoir across the Cauvery River near the border with Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu has opposed the project, claiming it would violate the final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal and reduce water flow to its farmers. The CWMA, established in 2018 to implement the award, has been deadlocked on the issue. According to official data, Tamil Nadu's share of Cauvery water is 404.25 thousand million cubic feet (tmc ft), while Karnataka's share is 284.75 tmc ft.
Farmers' Concerns and Protests
Farmers in the Cauvery delta region have warned of renewed protests if the tribunal proposal moves forward. The Tamil Nadu Vivasayigal Sangam (TNVS) announced plans for a statewide agitation. "We will not allow the state government to surrender to Karnataka's demands," said M. Rajendran, a TNVS leader. The dispute has already affected agricultural output, with the Cauvery delta region witnessing a 15% drop in paddy cultivation in the last kharif season due to water shortages.
Political Reactions and Next Steps
The opposition AIADMK criticized the DMK-led government for its handling of the issue, with former minister D. Jayakumar calling the tribunal proposal "a sign of weakness." The state government is expected to submit a formal request to the central government for the tribunal's constitution. Meanwhile, Karnataka has maintained that the Mekedatu project is essential for drinking water needs in Bengaluru and has refused to halt construction. The Supreme Court is also hearing a related petition, with the next hearing scheduled for July 2026.
