R Ashoka Accuses Karnataka Government of Neglecting Water Interests

Opposition leader R Ashoka accused the Congress-led Karnataka government of failing to protect the state's interests regarding the Cauvery water dispute. He argued that releasing 4 TMC of water, as recommended by the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee, would jeopardize drinking water supplies for Bengaluru residents and local farmers.

Ashoka alleged that the state administration is releasing the water primarily to please the Congress party's high command and the supported government in Tamil Nadu. He urged Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to cancel scheduled talks with the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and prioritize domestic infrastructure.

To address the crisis, Ashoka demanded that the government allocate 10,000 crore rupees to begin the Mekedatu project. He asserted that the Central government has already given the project a green signal and that the project is essential for securing the state's water future.