Delhi visit fruitful on irrigation issues, says Deputy CM DK Shivakumar

BENGALURU: Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Friday described his visit to the national capital as “fruitful” on irrigation issues.

Shivakumar, responding to the media queries at Kempegowda International Airport, said, “During the Delhi trip, I met Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Paatil and discussed the notification regarding the Krishna Tribunal verdict and the appraisal report of the Mekedatu project. I met Forest Minister Bhupendra Yadav and discussed the Kalasa Banduri issue”.

“I also spoke to Prahlad Joshi on this issue. He has suggested a compromise between the two states. We have approached the Supreme Court, and there are some technicalities in this matter. The Goans said that it is not right for us to have a show cause notice, and we have discussed it with legal experts”, Shivakumar said.

#WATCH | Bengaluru | On his visit to Delhi, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar says, “Our visit to Delhi was very fruitful. In the interest of the government and the state of Karnataka, we have made demands regarding some projects. I have submitted all the proposals. Govt of India… pic.twitter.com/Y0CXIRPakt

— ANI (@ANI) July 11, 2025

Shivakumar said that the Karnataka government has submitted request for new projects. “In addition, we have submitted a request for new projects. During the Parliament session, we will go to Delhi again, discuss it with the state MPs and request them to impose pressure together”.

When asked about the opposition to the construction of a dam in Lakkenahalli in connection with the Yettinahole project, he said, “No matter what project you do, including roads and dams, there will be opposition. Drinking water must be supplied. This water must be stored everywhere. We had thought that not only Lakkenahalli, but also some areas in the Koratagere area should be used. It is impossible to say how the water will flow. This issue will be discussed with Parameshwar and discussed in the next cabinet”.

Shivakumar denied that the too and fro with the party high command in Delhi had anything to do with a possible change in the state leadership.

“What political discussions took place? There was a discussion about giving some status to our workers. All the MLAs have submitted their opinions. Those who have worked hard in the party organization at the taluk and district levels and some others should be given status as per the promise we made. This has reached the final stage. The proposal for this will be sent to Delhi again and permission will be sought.”

Shivakumar refused to get into the issue of party leadership signalling that he had accepted the decision of the party bosses. “I am the party’s state president. I will do whatever the party says. I was busy yesterday. In the meantime, I saw the Chief Minister’s statement. He himself has answered your questions. After he has answered, it is not appropriate for us to discuss that issue again. It is also not appropriate for you to ask questions on that issue again,” he said

“Many of you also have many desires. I will not comment on this issue. There is no need for that. Whoever has spoken has answered all the questions. For now, I will not give any answer,” he added. (ANI)