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Following the deliberations, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar addressed the press, stating, “Today, our team held an extensive consultation with our legal experts. We’re collaborating closely with our senior advocate representing Karnataka. While we understand the necessity of releasing 5,000 cusecs of water, the outflow of water is causing significant distress for Karnataka. The prevailing water scarcity due to inadequate rainfall adds to our concern. We sincerely hope that Tamil Nadu will consider the sentiments of our people and farmers. Our respect for the farmers in Tamil Nadu is unwavering. Yet, we strongly advocate for Mekedatu as the only viable solution for Karnataka during this critical juncture. Contrary to concerns, Mekedatu would, in fact, serve the interests of Tamil Nadu.”
The directive from CWMA, issued on August 28, mandated the release of 5,000 cusecs of water by the Karnataka government, prompting various farmers’ organizations to stage sit-ins in Mysore, Mandya, and Chamarajanagar, the heartland of the Cauvery region. The opposition BJP criticized the Congress government for allegedly not safeguarding Karnataka’s interests and accused the Tamil Nadu administration, led by the DMK, of inadequately handling the legal aspect of the dispute.
Initiating the water release on Wednesday, the Karnataka government adhered to the CWMA directive of releasing 5,000 cusecs of water daily. Prior to this, the CWMA had originally directed the release of 10,000 cusecs per day. However, citing insufficient rainfall in the Cauvery basin, Karnataka petitioned the CWMA to reevaluate the situation. Consequently, the CWMA acknowledged Karnataka’s concerns and revised the directive to ensure a daily flow of 5,000 cusecs of water to Biligundlu, the border point between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.