‘Rejection of Tamil Nadu’s plea on Mekedatu by SC has given us justice’: Deputy CM DK Shivakumar

BENGALURU: Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has welcomed the Supreme Court’s rejection of Tamil Nadu’s plea against Karnataka’s plan for the construction of the Mekedatu dam across the Cauvery river. The Supreme Court said the matter was under the consideration of expert bodies and that the court cannot interfere.

The Karnataka Deputy CM, while addressing reporters at Vidhana Soudha on Thursday, said that the Supreme Court’s decision on Mekedatu “gave justice” and benefits both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Shivakumar said, “This is not about setback or victory. It has given justice on Mekedatu. Mekedatu is a project for our water and it doesn’t affect Tamil Nadu in any way. In fact it benefits Tamil Nadu. The Supreme Court has responded to the people of Karnataka.”

The Supreme Court’s decision on the Mekedatu project has reaffirmed justice for Karnataka. This is about fairness and the rightful use of our water resources, and a step forward for our people. Mekedatu will secure drinking water for Bengaluru and ensure that Tamil Nadu continues… pic.twitter.com/ov9iXM1Sqa

— DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) November 13, 2025

He was replying to a question on whether it was a setback to Tamil Nadu. Shivakumar said Karnataka will proceed with the Mekedatu project, stressing that Tamil Nadu will get its court-mandated share and the project will ensure supplies even in poor rainfall years.

“Tamil Nadu will get its share of water as per Court’s judgements and hence we will continue with the project. This project is being done in our land and with our resources. This project will help us supply water to Tamil Nadu as per the tribunal’s order even during poor rain years.”

Shivakumar said the Supreme Court is a victory for Bengaluru, ensuring drinking water for all residents, and urged Tamil Nadu to support the project so both states can work together.

He said, “This is a victory to the people of Bengaluru. This water will provide drinking water to people from all states living in Bengaluru. I appeal to Tamil Nadu to support the project now at least. We all need to work on this project together.”

Shivakumar said the Supreme Court will guide the CWC on Mekedatu, adding the commission “has no choice”. Asked if the CWC will support the project, he said, “The court will give directions to the Central Water Commission. The CWC doesn’t have any other choice but to support the Mekedaru project”.

The Mekedatu project, designed to store about 66 tmcft of water, aims to act as a balancing reservoir for water distribution to Tamil Nadu. (ANI)