Tamil Nadu Governor Addresses Assembly: State Opposes New Mullaperiyar Dam, Steps Against Mekedatu
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, in his address to the Tamil Nadu Assembly on Thursday (June 18, 2026), stated that the state government will take firm measures to oppose the Kerala government's proposal to build a new Mullaperiyar dam. He added that the government will undertake concerted action to carry out repair works at the dam and raise its water level.
The Governor described the Mullaperiyar dam as a lifeline for the people of southern districts. He noted that in 2014, the Supreme Court permitted raising the water level to 142 feet and suggested a further increase to 152 feet after strengthening the dam. However, he said, the Kerala government has refused permission for strengthening works and continues to press for a new dam.
Regarding the Cauvery water dispute, the Governor said the Cauvery delta region is the granary of Tamil Nadu, and farmers rely on the river as their main water source. He stated that Tamil Nadu has had the right to use Cauvery water since time immemorial, and despite the Supreme Court upholding this right, the state struggles annually to obtain water. He accused the Karnataka government of releasing only surplus water instead of the state's due share. He said the Karnataka government's proposed Mekedatu project would severely affect agricultural production and farmers' livelihoods, and the Tamil Nadu government is taking necessary legal measures to halt it and secure water for the state.
The Governor also announced structural reforms in the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department to improve administration of historic temples. Measures include auditing all temple properties, lands, and revenues, and introducing transparent computerised accounts. He said administrative malpractices will be eliminated, and temple assets will be used solely for sacred purposes.
Additionally, the government will act on a war footing to fill vacant posts of Assistant Professors and teaching staff in state universities and higher education institutions through a transparent process based on eligibility and merit.
