Mahadayi interlocutory order is inappropriate distribution of water
In the struggle for water that lasted for nearly 20 years affecting North Karnataka region such as Dharwad, Vijayapura and others there has been a respite to the problem, finally. The Mahadayi Tribual has given its interlocutory order in case of Mahadayi water sharing issue between Karnataka and Goa. The tribunal has admitted that Karnataka has a right on the water of this river that originates in the border area of Karnataka and flows into Goa.
But the fact that Goa gets high share of water in this distribution is something that would turn into a bone of contention in Karnataka. According to this order, Karnataka gets 13.42 tmc ft and Goa gets 24 tmc ft water for themselves. Moreover, the tribunal has rejected Goa’s plea that Karnataka should not be allowed to channel water to Malaprabha river basin, or use for any other purpose. This aspect is more than welcome. Though the order is very satisfactory, this is not total justice to Karnataka. The state should approach the Supreme Court to claim entire share of the water.
The farmers of the region have been demanding this since a long time, and justifiably so. The struggle began in Navalagund and Naragund then spread to Bailhongal, Badami, Guledgud and Bagalkot as well. People took to streets unmindful of the fear of action by police. About 11 people died and many sat on a dharna before the houses of BJP MPs and MLAs in North Karnataka. They demanded that the BJP legislators should pressurize their party that has assumed power at the centre to ensure justice for them.
Former CM Siddaramaiah had taken all party delegation to Delhi regarding this issue. Though they requested PM Narendra Modi to intervene and sort this issue out, the PM didn’t respond positively. The tribunal provided an opportunity for Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka to discuss and reach an agreement on this matter. Even the then Congress government had shown interest in this approach. But the BJP government at the centre acted rather irresponsibly including even those governments in Maharashtra and Goa. PM Modi gave the most callous answer stating one should go to him after the leaders of opposition parties in Goa and Maharashtra arrive at a consensus on the issue.
The MPs and MLAs of BJP from Karnataka sat silently before PM Modi. Yeddyurappa in a speech had said Goa BJP government was all set to sort this issue out, and that Goa CM Parrikar had written a letter to him in this regard. He even showed a letter to the effect. But Parrikar had not shown any such inclination and was rather irresponsive about the issue.
Yeddyurappa had staged this whole episode to convince the people of Uttara Karnataka that they were trying their best to find solution to this issue. In reality, Yeddyurappa has sat silent before the PM when all party delegation met him. Though the interlocutory order is some solace, this is one step in right direction. Now the state can approach the Supreme Court. The tribunal has allowed any drinking water project to be taken up by Karnataka and has fixed separate share of water for drinking water and hydroelectric project purposes. State has to consult the experts on this before taking further step.
Karnataka had sought 7.56 tmc ft water for drinking purpose. The state would surely be happy with 13.37 tmc ft water that has been allotted as its share. The government has to call for a meeting of experts, farmers and elected representatives to take the next step towards ensuring more water is allocated to it. Central Water Commission has opined that Karnataka should get 42 tmc ft water but it has got only 13.37 tmc ft. This means this water can be used to drink and generate power, and share the same water with Goa again.
State has not got water that is needed for agriculture. During monsoon, state should not be forced to flow its share of water into Malaprabha river. We can get water from Kalasa owing to geography and gravitational force. But since Banduri is in higher space, this water has to be lifted using other techniques. If farmers’ fields have to be provided with water, the channels have to be dug and made functional very soon. The government will have to take suggestions from the experts regarding this. The tribunal has agreed to the fact that 188 tmc ft water can be used. This is a moral victory for Karnataka. Only 38 tmc ft water has been distributed among three states now. The other 150tmc ft water is not being distributed. Before Goa approaches the higher court, Karnataka should take the first step and ensure it gets more water. The distribution could have been more appropriate to ensure Karnataka didn’t feel wronged. But since this distribution is inappropriate, Karnataka naturally feels it has got the lowest share. This has to be rectified at the earliest.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
