August 31, 2023*
Mandya, Karnataka
Introduction
In a poignant display of solidarity, a group of farmers in Karnataka’s Mandya district embarked on a determined night-long candlelight vigil to protest against the recent orders mandating the release of Cauvery waters to Tamil Nadu. The demonstration, taking place near Srirangapatna, was ignited by the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee’s directive that Karnataka discharge 5000 cusecs of water to its neighbouring state over the next 15 days.
The protest, which commenced early in the day, gained prominence with the support of Independent MLA Darshan Puttanaiah, backed by the Congress party. This sentiment was further bolstered by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s upcoming trip to Delhi to address the contentious Cauvery water issue. Mr. Shivakumar expressed his determination to advocate for Karnataka’s stance and engage with the legal team, in preparation for the impending hearing of Tamil Nadu’s plea in the Supreme Court.
Karnataka’s fervent objection to the water release stems from its argument that the Tribunal’s order was grounded in an inaccurate assessment of the state’s monsoon conditions. The state asserts that the actual monsoon situation deviated from the assumed “normal” conditions, thus necessitating a reconsideration of the water discharge volume.
CM Joins in
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah joined the chorus of dissent, underscoring the potential grave consequences of releasing the stipulated water quantity. Siddaramaiah underscored that complying with the directive would dangerously deplete the state’s reservoirs, exacerbating an already worrisome drinking water scarcity situation.
Addressing the core of the issue, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar emphasized Karnataka’s commitment to its farmers. He stated that the state aims to secure a reduced water release quota while effectively conveying the dire conditions faced by its residents. “We don’t want the keys to be handed over to others. At present, the keys are with us, and we have to safeguard our farmers,” he asserted, echoing the sentiment of thousands of farmers standing united in their vigil.
The longstanding Cauvery water dispute, dating back decades, continues to be a source of tension between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. In 1990, recognizing the gravity of the issue, the Centre established the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal to mediate between the two southern states. However, the dispute has proven to be stubbornly complex, involving factors like monsoon variations, water sharing, and the agricultural and livelihood needs of both states.
Conclusion
As Karnataka’s farmers persevere through the night in a symbolic gesture of their struggle, all eyes are on the unfolding events as the two states navigate this sensitive and vital issue through the corridors of legal discourse and public sentiment.
