On Saturday, JD(S) leader and former prime minister H.D. Deve Gowda emphasized that Karnataka should receive 25 TMC of water under the Godavari-Krishna-Cauvery irrigation project. He pledged to join forces with all political parties to ensure that the state’s rightful share is granted.
Gowda, who addressed reporters, expressed his willingness to collaborate with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and Congress MPs, setting aside political differences for Karnataka’s welfare. “When it comes to the interests of Karnataka, BJP, Congress, and JD(S) must unite,” he asserted, reinforcing his commitment to the cause.
The JD(S) supremo underscored that irrigation should not be a political issue and recalled his past cooperation with Siddaramaiah on irrigation matters, despite their political differences. “Irrigation should not be politicized. I have supported efforts for irrigation even when we were not on speaking terms,” he added.
Gowda reiterated that his party remains deeply involved in river-linking and irrigation projects, expressing full support for the state government’s initiatives. He also mentioned his past appeals to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister C.R. Patil for a larger share of water from the project.
Karnataka is currently allocated 15.891 TMC of water, but Gowda insists this should be raised to 25 TMC. He questioned the feasibility of the current water diversion plans and vowed to continue fighting for the state’s water rights.
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