Pondy assembly passes resolution against Centre's nod for DPR

The Puducherry Assembly Friday unanimously adopted a resolution condemning the move of the Karnataka government to construct a dam across Cauvery river at Mekedatu.

The resolution also took strong exception to the permission given by the Central Water Commission through a 'No Objection certificate' to Karnataka to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) on the dam project.

This comes a week after the Tamil Nadu assembly adopted a resolution unanimously urging the Centre to withdraw the permission given to Karnataka for the DPR for its proposed dam across river Cauvery at Mekedattu.

Tabling the resolution, Chief Minister V Narayanasamy said the construction of a dam would be "detrimental" to the interests of the ryots in Karaikal region of the Union Territory, which is among the lower riparian states depending on Cauvery river water.

He said the proposal to construct the reservoir was also in violation of the final order of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal.

"Puducherry government and the Assembly register strong protest against the move of Karnataka and condemn the proposal in no uncertain terms," he said adding the House also condemned the Central Water Commission for giving permission to Karnataka to prepare the DPR.

He urged the Centre to scrap the permission accorded by the Central Water Commission to Karnataka without consulting the riparian states.

Earlier the members belonging to the ruling Congress and opposition block extended full support to the unanimous adoption of the government resolution.

Welcoming the resolution, Leader of the opposition N Rangasamy (AINRC) said, "it is a very well worded resolution and highlights the need to protect farmers of Karaikal against the move of the Karnataka government."