States » SouthPosted at: Nov 15 2026 7:01PM


Kumaraswamy backs Mekedatu project, asks Karnataka to seek Centre's approval

Ramanagara, Nov 15 (UNI) union Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Sunday backed the proposed Mekedatu dam project but said the Karnataka government should directly approach the Centre and secure the necessary approval instead of expecting him to obtain clearance single-handedly.
Speaking to reporters at Hunasanahalli in Ramanagara district, Kumaraswamy was responding to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's reported appeal to him to facilitate the project's approval.
"We are in favour of the Mekedatu project. But those running the government should meet the Centre and seek approval," he said, adding that he was only one minister in the union government.
Kumaraswamy also expressed support for the state government's reported proposal to earmark funds for the project in the next Budget and perform the foundation-laying ceremony for the dam.
He, however, made it clear that the state government must pursue the necessary approvals from the union government, indicating that his support did not amount to any formal clearance for the project.
Referring to the Cauvery water dispute and irrigation issues, Kumaraswamy highlighted the experience of his father and former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, saying he had been closely involved in irrigation-related matters for nearly five decades and possessed extensive knowledge of the subject.
He said his party had consistently stood by Karnataka's interests on irrigation projects.
The Mekedatu project, proposed across the Cauvery river, has remained a contentious issue amid differences between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over its implementation.
Kumaraswamy's remarks come amid renewed political exchanges over the responsibility for securing the project's approval, with the state government expressing its intention to provide budgetary support and advance the proposal.
Meanwhile, responding to questions on the upcoming by-election and the possible understanding between the BJP and JD(S), he said the two parties would discuss whether a candidate from either party should contest after assessing local public opinion and expectations.
He said the by-election outcome would also provide an indication of the political future of the alliance, adding that the contest was not a matter of personal prestige for him.
UNI BDN
Tags: #Kumaraswamy backs Mekedatu project# asks Karnataka to seek Centre's approval
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