Cauvery water release order sparks farmer protests in Karnataka
The Cauvery water sharing dispute has reignited as farmers in Karnataka's Mysuru and Mandya districts intensify protests against the state government's potential compliance with the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee's directive to release water to Tamil Nadu.
State Sugarcane Growers' Association President Kurubur Shanthkumar reiterated demands that the Karnataka government reject the committee's order, citing monsoon failure, depleting reservoir levels, and an emerging drinking water crisis. He urged the government to file a review petition challenging the directive and warned of statewide protests if the interests of Cauvery basin farmers are compromised.
Protests, including roadblocks and 'urulu seve' (rolling on the ground), have been staged since Wednesday. On Thursday, members of a pro-Kannada organisation held an empty-pot demonstration in Mysuru, urging the Congress-led state government to prioritise local needs and expedite the Mekedatu project for long-term water security.
The Cauvery Water Regulation Committee had ordered Karnataka to release a specific quantum of water to Tamil Nadu, a decision opposed by Karnataka farmers who argue that inadequate rainfall has left reservoirs at critical lows. Authorities in Bengaluru have already advised residents to use water judiciously.
In a statement, Mr. Shanthkumar emphasised that the state must safeguard its farmers' interests and should not compromise on water availability for drinking and agriculture. The protests have caused temporary disruptions, including a blockade of the Mysuru-Ooty Highway on Wednesday evening.
The dispute highlights the ongoing tension between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over sharing of Cauvery waters, a decades-old issue adjudicated by the Supreme Court and monitored by the Cauvery Water Management Authority. The Mekedatu project, proposed by Karnataka to store and utilise its share of water, has faced opposition from Tamil Nadu.
