Call to Postpone CWMA Meeting Amidst Political Transition

On Monday, PMK leader Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss called for a delay in the 50th meeting of the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA), originally set for April 29 in Delhi. He emphasized that representatives from the new governments of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Kerala should be present to ensure balanced discussions.

The meeting's agenda includes discussing water distribution to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, a crucial issue given the recent assembly elections. Ramadoss insisted that only water distribution based on previous rulings should be addressed, not the contentious Mekedatu Dam project, which Karnataka seeks to push forward.

Dr. Ramadoss highlighted potential consequences for Tamil Nadu if the CWMA meeting proceeds with discussions on Mekedatu. He called for assurance from CWMA officials to exclude the issue, protecting interests of local farmers. The backdrop involves ongoing opposition from Tamil Nadu against the Mekedatu project, despite pressure from Karnataka.

(With inputs from agencies.)