BANGALORE: Taking strong exception to the demand of Tamil Nadu for the release of Cauvery waters, Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda asserted that the state government will not sacrifice the interests of the farmers of Cauvery river basin.
“We will fight for the cause of the farmers at all levels including taking up the issue with the Centre. It has become a habit for Tamil Nadu to raise the issue every summer, though there is sufficient water in the neighbouring state,” the Chief Minister told reporters at his home office “Krishna” on Saturday.
According to Gowda, there is formula laid down by the tribunal for sharing of waters according to the seasons, including the distress period but it was unfair on the part of Tamil Nadu to demand the same quantity of water all the time.
“Tamil Nadu has raised the issue of Cauvery waters due to political reasons. I do not want to comment on that but I assure the farmers that their interests will not be sacrificed and the state government will fight legally for justice,” the Chief Minister said.
When asked specifically whether the state would release water to Tamil Nadu, Gowda diplomatically said, “I don’t have to be explicit. I have said something which conveys the appropriate message,” he said and added, “Water resources Minister Basavaraj Bommai has already initiated discussions on this issue with the legal and technical experts."