Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday said Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has expressed interest in resolving the Cauvery water dispute through talks. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters in New Delhi.
Shivakumar said an order has been issued to release a small quantity of water from the Cauvery. He noted that Tamil Nadu’s request had earlier been rejected twice, and that he has held consultations with ministers and officials on filing an appeal against the latest direction.
He added that after returning to Bengaluru, he would also discuss the matter with opposition leaders. Shivakumar said Tamil Nadu has conveyed willingness to meet him in person, and that the Chief Secretary has written to him and also spoken over the phone.
Stating that it is Karnataka’s duty to treat the visiting side with respect and provide what is due, Shivakumar said he has asked them to come for discussions. He also said a helicopter has been kept ready for Vijay to visit Karnataka’s water bodies, including the Mekedatu region, and that a team of lawyers and officials is prepared to brief him.
