In a display of rare political unity, Karnataka’s MPs have resolved to form an all-party delegation to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Jal Shakti following the conclusion of state assembly elections across India. The decision emerged from a late-night huddle at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi, as revealed by Deputy CM DK Shivakumar.
Chaired amid growing concerns over irrigation deficits, the session brought together 24 lawmakers, including BJP stalwarts such as Jagdish Shettar, Basavaraj Bommai, Govind Karjol, and Vishveshwar Hegde Kageri. The agenda zeroed in on streamlining projects like Mahadayi, Krishna, Tungabhadra, and Bhadra, while assessing overall irrigation advancements.
Shivakumar explained the deferral: ‘With polls announced in some states, our MPs wisely advised holding off to prevent any unintended fallout.’ This pragmatic approach reflects a shared priority—Karnataka’s welfare. He highlighted breakthroughs like the Upper Krishna Project’s land acquisition drive, where fair compensation has fast-tracked 1.33 lakh acres, funded generously in the national budget.
The Cauvery issue remains guided by judicial mandates, Shivakumar assured. Recent talks with Minister Prahlad Joshi paved the way for this forum. On Yettinahol, long-awaited environmental nods will spur immediate action on the near-complete initiative. ‘We’ve submitted key documents and briefed on progress,’ he added, thanking participants for fostering dialogue.
This initiative underscores a maturing political landscape where cross-party efforts tackle systemic water woes, potentially heralding accelerated project timelines and enhanced farmer support.