Is the Mahadayi Project Controversy a Case of Misuse of Power by Goa's Government?
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Synopsis
In a heated exchange, Karnataka Minister M.B. Patil accuses the Goa government of abusing its political position amidst the ongoing Mahadayi project dispute. As tensions rise, leaders from Karnataka are urged to act decisively to protect their state's interests. Will Karnataka successfully overcome the obstacles posed by Goa?
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka accuses Goa of political misuse
- Mahadayi project crucial for northern Karnataka's water needs
- Calls for intervention from Karnataka MPs and Union Ministers
- Dispute highlights complexities of inter-state water management
- Ongoing tensions may impact project timeline
Bengaluru, July 25 (NationPress) Amid the escalating tensions surrounding the Mahadayi project, Karnataka's Minister for Large and Medium Industries, M.B. Patil, accused the Goa government of misusing its authority because both states are led by the same political party at the national level.
In a conversation with reporters, Patil stated: "The BJP-led administration in Goa is abusing its influence as it enjoys the backing of the ruling party at the Centre. Despite a gazette notification issued and an award defining the water allocation, any obstruction to our efforts would be seen as a betrayal by the Goa government."
He added, "We will implement necessary measures."
"Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also holds the Irrigation Minister position, will take decisive actions to safeguard the interests of our state. I also call upon our MPs and Union Ministers from Karnataka—especially former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai, who has actively addressed the Mahadayi issue, along with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and former CM and BJP MP Jagadish Shettar. These leaders are from the areas that will benefit from the Mahadayi project."
"I urge all MPs and Union Ministers from our state to leverage their connections to persuade the Government of India and relevant ministries to ensure the smooth progress of this project," he emphasized.
Previously, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar criticized Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, labeling his assertion that the Centre would not approve forest clearance for the Mahadayi project as unacceptable.
"We intend to withdraw our petition in the Supreme Court and commence project work immediately. Let him attempt to hinder us—I will be watching," he warned.
"The Goa Chief Minister appears to have lost his grip on reality. He disregards the federal framework of our nation. The tribunal has already ruled on the Mahadayi matter, and tenders have been issued for the project's execution. During the BJP’s administration, then-CM Bommai, local MPs, and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi celebrated the project's advancement," he remarked.
The Goa Chief Minister claimed in the assembly that the Centre assured him it would not sanction Karnataka's Mahadayi project.
Goa has been resisting the Union government's endorsement of Karnataka’s Kalasa-Banduri projects within the Mahadayi basin. In 2018, the Mahadayi Water Dispute Tribunal awarded water from the Mahadayi river, allocating 13.42 tmcft to Karnataka, 1.33 tmcft to Maharashtra, and 24 tmcft to Goa. This decision was formalized by the Union government in 2020.
Karnataka has persistently requested the Centre to grant essential clearance from the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) to expedite the long-delayed Mahadayi project, vital for fulfilling the drinking water demands of northern Karnataka. Nevertheless, despite the NBWL conducting its 77th, 79th, and 80th meetings, no resolution has been reached yet.
Point of View
The Mahadayi project row highlights the intricate dynamics of inter-state relations in India. While Karnataka's leadership seeks to secure water resources essential for its population, Goa's resistance underscores the complexities of federalism and resource management. The ongoing dispute necessitates careful dialogue to ensure equitable solutions that respect both states' needs.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mahadayi project?
The Mahadayi project is an irrigation initiative aimed at utilizing water from the Mahadayi river to address the drinking water needs of northern Karnataka.
Why is there a dispute between Karnataka and Goa?
The dispute arises from differing claims over water allocation from the Mahadayi river, with both states seeking to secure their water needs.
What has the Karnataka government accused Goa of?
Karnataka's government has accused Goa of misusing its political position to obstruct the progress of the Mahadayi project.
What actions are being considered by the Karnataka government?
Karnataka leaders are considering legal measures and urging MPs and Union Ministers to persuade the central government to facilitate the project's progress.
What was the outcome of the Mahadayi Water Dispute Tribunal?
The Tribunal allocated 13.42 tmcft of water to Karnataka, 1.33 tmcft to Maharashtra, and 24 tmcft to Goa, a decision formalized by the Union government.
