Can Chandrababu Naidu Safeguard Andhra’s Interests in Krishna Waters?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- YSR Congress Party emphasizes the need for strong representation in water disputes.
- Upcoming KWDT-II hearings are pivotal for Andhra Pradesh’s water rights.
- The state government faces significant pressure to act decisively.
- Political inaction can lead to adverse outcomes for the region.
- Historical context highlights the implications of previous decisions.
Amaravati, Nov 21 (NationPress) YSR Congress Party's leader, Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, has called upon the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, to prioritize the welfare of the state’s residents during proceedings at the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal-II (KWDT-II).
In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, Jagan emphasized that the state has a crucial opportunity to present its stance in the forthcoming hearings before the KWDT-II.
The YSRCP leader highlighted the significance of this case, particularly in light of the demand from the Telangana government for the allocation of 763 TMC of reliable water from the Krishna River.
If the tribunal agrees to this demand, it would lead to significant injustice for Andhra Pradesh. Jagan insisted that the Andhra Pradesh Government must finalize its arguments before the KWDT-II to avert any unfair redistribution of resources.
“It is troubling to observe that the TDP coalition Government in Andhra Pradesh lacks genuine commitment to defending the state’s rights over Krishna river waters. They are presenting weak arguments in favor of the state at KWDT-II,” he stated.
The former Chief Minister also criticized the TDP for its indifference towards the Rayalaseema Projects.
Referencing the recent clearance by the Karnataka Government to acquire 1,33,867 acres of land for raising the Almatti dam height from 519.16 meters to 524.256 meters, Jagan warned Naidu that his government’s lack of sincerity in protecting state interests is opening doors for neighboring states to take actions that could have detrimental effects on Andhra Pradesh.
He recalled that the initiative to elevate the Almatti dam height began when Naidu was not only the Chief Minister of unified Andhra Pradesh but also the convener of the United Front back in 1996. Opposition parties and farmers rightly feared that this development would severely compromise the rights of a united Andhra Pradesh.
“Despite widespread protests, Naidu ignored the concerns. The TDP Government's insincere approach allowed the Brijesh Kumar Tribunal to approve the Almatti Dam height increase. Furthermore, the TDP Government established in 2014 forfeited the state’s rights over Krishna river waters to Telangana,” the YSRCP leader remarked.
Jagan reiterated that under Naidu’s leadership, Andhra Pradesh faces this challenging scenario, emphasizing the need to protect the state's interests.
“At this critical juncture, I implore the TDP coalition Government to act with dedication towards the state and defend its rights over Krishna waters. If even a single TMC of the 512 TMC allocated by the Bachawat Tribunal is lost, the TDP Government will bear the blame,” he concluded.