PMK opposes talks on Mullaiperiyar issue

Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, Dec 20 (UNI) Terming the talks between the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Kerala on the Mullaiperiyar issue ''fruitless'', the PMK today urged the State Government to remain firm in its stand that neighbouring Kerala should honour the Supreme Court order on the issue.

''Such talks will not yield result. We had approached the Supreme Court only after talks at various levels failed since 1979,'' PMK founder-leader S Ramadoss told newspersons at his residence here.

He recalled that the apex court, after considering all aspects, passed orders last year that the water level of the reservoir could be increased to 142 ft from the present 136 ft. ''The Kerala Government should abide by the Supreme Court first,'' he demanded.

The apex court had observed that most river water disputes remained unresolved due to the States' misconception that the entire quantum of water in rivers of their land belonged to them, he pointed out, adding that such a selfish attitude was more pronounced in the South, but for which Cauvery, Palar and Mullaiperiyar issues could have been easily resolved.

Stating that Mullaiperiyar dam had espoused the cause of interlinking of rivers a decade ago, Dr Ramadoss said if the Government did not remain firm in its stand, the dream of interlinking of rivers would never be fulfilled.

He welcomed Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's speech in New Delhi, seeking legislative sanction for court orders in water dispute cases. He also welcomed Mr Karunanidhi's statement, opposing the Centre's contention that States should bear the financial burden for implementing Central schemes.

UNI