Karnataka Committed to Mahadayi Project: D.K. Shivakumar

Swift Summary

• Goa Chief Minister Pramod sawant stated the Union Surroundings Ministry would not grant approval for Karnataka’s mahadayi project.
• Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K.Shivakumar strongly opposed this position and said the State would begin work on the project irrespective.
• Mr. Shivakumar plans to lead an all-party delegation to Delhi to persuade the Center to provide necesary clearances for the project.
• He announced Karnataka would withdraw its application from the Supreme Court and proceed with project implementation following a tribunal verdict regarding Mahadayi.
• BJP leaders,including Basavaraj Bommai and Pralhad Joshi,had previously celebrated expected approval of this project by central authorities.
• Mr. Shivakumar urged MPs from Karnataka to exert pressure on the Centre for clearance of the Mahadayi project.
• He emphasized that both Union Ministers he interacted with-jal Shakti and Environment-were impartial on progress issues related to this project but pointed out resistance from Goa’s side as a key challenge.

Indian Opinion analysis

The assertion by D.K. Shivakumar signals escalating tensions between Karnataka and Goa over water resource allocation via major inter-state projects like Mahadayi. While highlighting support from BJP counterparts earlier, his remarks underline political friction among state actors in managing federal-level approvals crucial for developmental projects. His decision to lead an all-party delegation reflects an attempt at inclusivity, indicating how water-sharing disputes often prompt collaboration across party lines.

The broader implications include potential strain in inter-state relations if clearances remain unresolved or unilateral actions are initiated without consensus mechanisms such as tribunal enforcement being upheld effectively. Such challenges might also set precedents concerning how natural resources are managed amidst competing demands that seek simultaneous sustainable development goals.

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