Shivakumar Says Vijay's Karnataka Visit May Be Rescheduled Over Cauvery Issue

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday said the proposed visit of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay to Karnataka would be rescheduled amid the ongoing Cauvery water dispute between the two states. Shivakumar said any discussion between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu should take place in a peaceful and cordial atmosphere to ensure meaningful dialogue and cooperation.

Speaking to reporters at Mysuru Airport, Shivakumar said Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay had proposed visiting Karnataka on August 3, but the prevailing situation was not suitable for such a meeting. He stressed that both states understood each other’s concerns and said efforts should be made to resolve issues through discussions while respecting the rights of both sides.

Addressing the Cauvery water-sharing issue, Shivakumar said Karnataka would take further decisions only after consulting former Chief Ministers, political leaders and legal experts during an upcoming all-party meeting. He said the state government would consider different viewpoints before deciding on the release of water to Tamil Nadu.

Also Read: Karnataka To Hold All-Party Meeting On Cauvery Issue, Says Dy CM Parameshwara

The Karnataka Chief Minister said the state should receive its rightful share of water according to court orders, while also acknowledging Tamil Nadu’s claims. He pointed out that the Cauvery Water Management Authority’s recent direction required Karnataka to release less water compared to demands made by Tamil Nadu, adding that records of previous years should be examined to understand the situation.

Responding to questions about the effectiveness of the Cauvery Water Management Authority, Shivakumar said comparisons should be made between water releases in previous years and the current year. He also avoided commenting on performing the traditional ‘Bagina’ offering at the Kabini reservoir, saying the timing was not appropriate amid the ongoing controversy.

During his visit to Mysuru, Shivakumar said he would offer prayers at the Chamundeshwari Temple, marking his first visit to the city after becoming Chief Minister. He also highlighted Mysuru’s historical contributions to education, culture and social development, recalling the role played by the region’s leaders in shaping Karnataka’s progress.

Also Read: Karnataka CM Says Ready To Discuss Cauvery Issue With Tamil Nadu Leader