Mandya: In a fervent demonstration, farmers and prominent leaders expressed strong opposition to the release of Cauvery river water to Tamil Nadu. Notable participants in the protest included pontiff Nirmalanandanath Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri mutt, actor Abhishek Ambarish, State President of Kannada Sahitya Parishad Mahesh Joshi, former minister CS Puttaraju, and several others.
Nirmalanandanath Swamiji expressed his profound concern regarding the longstanding Cauvery water dispute, which has endured for many decades. He stressed the importance of a well-considered allocation of water resources, giving top priority to drinking water, followed by agricultural, industrial, and other purposes. Currently, Tamil Nadu receives an annual allocation of 419 tmc of water, whereas Karnataka is granted 270 tmc per year. However, during periods of inadequate rainfall, this allocation presents a challenging situation.
The Swamiji drew attention to the severe scarcity of drinking water in the area and the alarmingly reduced water levels in the dams. He emphasized that when crops wilt due to this situation, it puts the people’s welfare in jeopardy, highlighting that human survival is currently in a precarious state. He expressed his frustration that their apprehensions went unheard prior to the recent decision to release 5 thousand cusecs of water daily for 15 days, a decision that poses a serious risk of depleting the dam completely.
In a heartfelt appeal directed at both the state and central governments, Swamiji urged them to effectively present their position to the court and prioritize the well-being of farmers. He stressed the importance of adhering to the current order, underscoring that it is the lives of farmers that are at stake. Swamiji presented a potential solution in the form of the Mekedatu project, which involves the storage of surplus water during rainy seasons for use during challenging periods. He firmly believed that this project could be mutually advantageous for both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Swamiji called upon the government to take decisive action in support of the farmers and expressed his readiness to engage in discussions with state and central ministers to explore a practical resolution.
Actor Abhishek Ambarish, during his participation in the protest, underscored that his commitment was rooted in a lifelong connection to the Cauvery conflict. He made it clear that his involvement was not driven by political factors but rather by his upbringing surrounded by the Cauvery issue, which prompted him to take a firm stance. Abhishek acknowledged the historical importance of Cauvery discussions in Delhi and drew attention to the potential repercussions if the water issue continues to linger without resolution.
He emphasized the significance of ensuring justice for the people of Karnataka, firmly stating that the security of their water supply is paramount. Abhishek advocated for a constructive dialogue between the governments of both states to discover a sustainable resolution to the Cauvery conflict, underscoring the longstanding dedication of Kannada cinema to this critical matter.
