Siddaramaiah Criticises Goa CM Pramod Sawant's Remarks on Mahadayi Project and Federalism Issues

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticised Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant's recent comments on the Mahadayi river project, calling them an affront to Karnataka's people. Siddaramaiah questioned why the central government had not officially communicated any concerns about the project. He expressed his discontent in a statement, highlighting the perceived injustice faced by Karnataka.

According to Siddaramaiah, the Mahadayi project is essential for providing drinking water to North Karnataka, not for luxury or waste. He noted that the people of Karnataka have been waiting for justice for decades. "The Goa CM's remark on the Mahadayi project is an insult to the people of Karnataka," he stated.

Federalism and Political Allegations

Siddaramaiah questioned the functioning of federalism under BJP rule, accusing it of backdoor sabotage and betrayal. He asked if Kannadigas were being punished for not aligning with BJP. "Is this how federalism works under BJP? Backdoor sabotage, silence, and betrayal?" he asked.

The Chief Minister also criticised BJP and JDS leaders from Karnataka for their silence on the issue. He accused them of lacking courage to speak out, stating that their silence would be remembered in the future. "Their silence today will be remembered tomorrow," he charged.

Legal and Political Battle

Despite a 2018 tribunal verdict allocating 13.42 TMC of water to Karnataka, Siddaramaiah alleged that the Centre, in collaboration with Goa's BJP government, was obstructing the project's implementation. He emphasised that the project is a lifeline for over 40 lakh people in Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, Bagalkot, and nearby areas.

"It is a lifeline, not a bargaining chip. We will fight legally, politically, and morally until Karnataka gets its rightful share," Siddaramaiah declared. The ongoing dispute between Goa and Karnataka over Mahadayi river water sharing has persisted for decades.

Ministerial Objections

Karnataka Minister H K Patil also objected to Sawant's remarks made in the Goa assembly regarding the Mahadayi river water-sharing issue. Sawant had claimed that Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav assured him that the Centre would not approve the Mahadayi project under any circumstances.

This claim was termed shocking by Karnataka. The BJP-ruled Goa has accused Congress-governed Karnataka of planning to divert the river by constructing two dams. The disagreement continues as both states remain locked in this long-standing conflict over water resources.

The ongoing dispute highlights significant political tensions between Goa and Karnataka over water sharing rights. As both states remain firm in their positions, finding a resolution remains challenging amid these complex dynamics.

With inputs from PTI