MDMK observes one-day fast on Cauvery issue

Chennai, Feb 17 (UNI) Workers of the Marumalarchi DMK led by General Secretary Vaiko are observing a day's fast here today, demading that the Centre and Karnataka governments ensure protection of Tamils living in Karnataka.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Vaiko said the fast was organised to highlight the 'disadvantages' of the final verdict of the Cauvery River Water Disputes Tribunal on the people of Tamil Nadu and he also urged the Centre and Tamil Nadu government to ensure the state's rights on the Cauvery waters were protected.

He accused DMK President and Chief Minister M Karunanidhi of betraying the people of Tamil Nadu on the Cauveri water issue.

Despite the verdict favouring Karnataka, there were several instances of Tamils were being attacked in Karnataka, he claimed.

When the Tribunal gave its interim order in 1991, similar incidents took place in which several Tamils were killed, besides their properties demanded, Mr Vaiko claimed.

He said similar situation was prevailing in Karnataka at present and Tamils feared a repeat of the 1991 incidents.

UNI