Mandya: Amidst the arid landscapes of Karnataka, a passionate chorus of protest echoed near Maddur as distressed farmers assembled to vehemently denounce the state Government’s controversial decision to divert Cauvery water into Tamil Nadu. The divisive issue has ignited widespread demonstrations, including a significant gathering near the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) dam in Mandya, where protestors rallied against perceived official indifference.
Adding weight to the protest was the presence of Melukote MLA Darshan Puttannaiah, who joined the agitating farmers, lending his voice to amplify their collective demand for immediate action.
“Frustration resonates in our voices. Karnataka has already allocated a substantial 80,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu, ensuring their rightful share from the Cauvery. However, the decision to release an additional 11,000 cusecs daily, as mandated by the Supreme Court, during this severe rainfall shortage is inherently unjust,” proclaimed one of the vocal protestors.
United under a banner of urgency, the rallying farmers fervently demanded an immediate halt to water diversion to Tamil Nadu, underscoring the critical necessity of addressing Karnataka’s own pressing water requirements.
Former Chief Minister and JDS leader, H. D. Kumaraswamy, directed his criticism towards the Congress-led Government, condemning the continued water release to Tamil Nadu while the state’s reservoirs struggled with insufficient water levels, impacting both irrigation and consumption.
Kumaraswamy’s accusations went further, suggesting that this move was a calculated political strategy aimed at securing victory in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He alleged that the incumbent Congress administration was willing to compromise the welfare of the farming community for electoral gains.
Allegedly rooted in the Supreme Court’s ruling on the enduring Cauvery water dispute, the state Government’s actions are presently guided by a daily quota of 12,718 cusecs to Tamil Nadu, in adherence to the Apex Court’s decree.
However, as farmers united in their stand, these protests painted a portrait of desperation—a steadfast plea for equitable resource distribution amid the unpredictable throes of nature.