It is PM Modi’s duty to resolve Cauvery dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka: Manickam Tagore

On July 31, 2026, B. Manickam Tagore, president of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) and member of parliament from Virudhunagar, issued a sharply worded response to Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) president Anbumani Ramadoss. In his statement, Tagore addressed Ramadoss's recent remarks questioning why he had not approached Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly regarding the ongoing Cauvery river water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka instead of involving Leader of the Opposition and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Tagore referenced Ramadoss's comments suggesting that if Gandhi, who is set to visit Chennai on August 1, asserts that the proposed Mekedatu dam construction is contrary to Tamil Nadu's interests, Ramadoss might consider leaving the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Tagore noted that such concerns could be raised with Gandhi once he assumes the role of Prime Minister. According to Tagore, it is the prime minister's duty and responsibility to address the long-standing Cauvery river water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. He highlighted that this year's inadequate rainfall resulted in less water than expected reaching Tamil Nadu from the Cauvery river. Against this context, the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee had mandated the Karnataka government to release 3,500 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu for the next 15 days. Tagore emphasized that it is the prime minister's role to engage with the chief ministers of both states to ensure compliance with the committee's directive. Tagore expressed frustration that the people of Tamil Nadu feel the prime minister is not fulfilling this responsibility. He called for condemnation of this perceived failure and noted that Ramadoss, being part of the BJP-led NDA, is well-positioned to directly approach the prime minister. Tagore reiterated the TNCC's stance that Tamil Nadu deserves justice in the Cauvery issue and that the state should receive its rightful share of water. He stated that the party has consistently maintained this position and that Congress members in the legislative assembly will continue to advocate for Tamil Nadu's interests. Furthermore, Tagore asserted that the Congress party does not intend to politicize the Cauvery issue. The Cauvery dispute, which dates back decades, involves complex legal and administrative challenges. The river flows through both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and its waters are crucial for agriculture and drinking purposes in both regions. Previous attempts at resolving the conflict have included court interventions and inter-state agreements, but tensions often resurface during periods of drought or low rainfall. The current situation has intensified following the formation of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee, which aims to manage the distribution of water more equitably. However, implementation of its recommendations has faced resistance, particularly from Karnataka, which argues that its own water needs must also be considered. Political dynamics play a significant role in the dispute. Both states have different political leaderships, and the central government's involvement is often seen as critical in mediating disputes. With the upcoming visit of Rahul Gandhi to Chennai, expectations are high that the issue might gain renewed attention, especially given the potential shift in power if Gandhi were to become prime minister. The controversy surrounding the Mekedatu dam project adds another layer of complexity. Proponents argue that the dam would provide essential irrigation and hydroelectric benefits, while opponents, including some in Tamil Nadu, fear it could disrupt the flow of the Cauvery river and affect downstream areas. This has led to heightened tensions and calls for immediate action from the central government. As the situation continues to unfold, the focus remains on whether Prime Minister Modi will take decisive steps to resolve the dispute and ensure adherence to the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee's directives. The outcome of these efforts will likely determine the stability of relations between the two states and the effectiveness of the central government's role in managing inter-state water conflicts.