DMK president M.K. Stalin has announced a protest demonstration in Thanjavur on August 3, calling on all political parties that share a common stand on the issue to participate.
In a statement, Stalin said the protest—led by Opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin—will press the Tamil Nadu government to take firm steps to safeguard the state’s Cauvery water rights and to announce a special relief package for delta farmers.
He urged farmer associations and like-minded political parties to join the agitation, warning that if the government continues to ignore farmers’ demands, it could face larger-scale protests.
Stalin also criticised the government over unfulfilled election promises, including farm loan waiver assurances, and raised concerns about Karnataka’s push for the Mekedatu dam. He questioned whether the Chief Minister’s reported visit to Karnataka on August 3 could dilute the Assembly’s demand for a tribunal on the Mekedatu issue.
Citing the non-opening of the Mettur dam this year, Stalin claimed losses of about Rs 2,500 crore and said the livelihoods of around 14 lakh farmers have been affected. He demanded that the relief package be announced without delay.
