Chennai: Chief Minister Vijay told the Tamil Nadu Assembly that he had explored the idea of travelling to Bengaluru to hold talks on the Cauvery dispute, saying dialogue was worth attempting even if it invited personal embarrassment.
The remarks came during a debate in which Opposition Leader Udhayanidhi criticised the state government for not convening an all-party meeting on the Cauvery issue, and questioned the mixed messages around a possible Karnataka visit. He also raised concerns about the government’s promise of full farm loan waiver, protests by farmers seeking relief, and the reduced kuruvai cultivation area in the delta.
Responding, Vijay said the Cauvery was a lifeline and an emotional issue for Tamil Nadu, and insisted his government had no intention of politicising it. He recalled that the Assembly had earlier passed a resolution on the Mekedatu matter and that the government had written to the Prime Minister, urging that no legal or administrative clearance be granted for the project.
The Chief Minister said Tamil Nadu would not concede its rights on Mekedatu and that the Cauvery issue must be handled carefully without seeking political credit. While stressing a firm legal approach, he said he considered a meeting because even hostile nations attempt to resolve disputes through talks, and he felt it was worth trying with a neighbouring state.
Vijay added that if such an effort resulted in humiliation, he was prepared to bear it for the sake of the people of Tamil Nadu.
