AIADMK, BJP positive on setting up of authority

Although the ministers were aware that the Centre had not recommended the setting up of Cauvery Management Board, they pointed out that the SC had stated that it would study the scheme to know if it will ensure the implementation of the SC judgment on water sharing. The Centre too had responded positively and promised to accept the amendments suggested by the SC. The apex court had given the opportunity for the state to come out with necessary amendments to ensure that the final verdict of the Supreme Court is implemented. Arguments for forming a toothless body by Karnataka will go against the judgment of both the tribunal and SC and it is unlikely to be accepted, AIADMK functionaries felt.

Advocate Thamizhmani said, “It is unlikely to end in the next hearing on May 16 itself, since further clarifications are necessary for all the states. If the Supreme Court comes out with an immediate order without providing clarity on the issues involved, the states will be forced to move court seeking many clarifications. It will be better if the Supreme Court heard all the sides and clarified all the points before delivering its verdict. So far, what has happened is good for Tamil Nadu.” Whoever forms the new government in Karnataka will also influence the case. Five members of the proposed 10-member committee will be appointed by the Centre and the role of the Centre will be crucial in the panel. The Centre and its political relationship with Tamil Nadu and Karnataka too will play a crucial role.

AIADMK spokesperson Vaigaiselvan asserted that the party would continue its legal fight till the Cauvery water rights of Tamil Nadu are upheld.

Meanwhile, BJP state president Tamilisai Soundararajan said, “Whether it is equivalent to the CMB or similar to it is not important. What we need is water and the nomenclature is not important. If the Centre was supporting Karnataka, it could have submitted a proposal before the Assembly elections and obtained votes.” MDMK general secretary Vaiko said only the formation of CMB and CWRC could protect the rights of Tamil Nadu. Citing the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal verdict ordering a board based on the model of Bhakra-Beas, he said the Centre’s action had thrown the tribunal verdict to the dustbin. He said the state should seek a review of the SC verdict by a seven-member Constitutional Bench.

However, AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran refrained from attacking the Centre or the state and said, “We will have to wait till May 16 to see what happens in the SC.”

The state should not accept any other mechanism other than the CMB and should not give room for betrayal, said PR Pandian, Coordinator of Federation of All Tamil Nadu Farmers Associations.