Decision on Cauvery water release after July 15 meeting: Karnataka Chief Minister

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Monday said the government needs to balance the interests of Karnataka’s farmers, ensure drinking water supply, and comply with court directions while taking a decision on the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu.

Speaking to the media at his home office Krishna, the Chief Minister said: “The Cauvery Water Management Authority meeting is scheduled on July 15. We will present Karnataka’s case there and announce our decision thereafter.”

Responding to a question on the demand by MLAs from Mandya regarding the release of Cauvery water, he said Mandya and Srirangapatna MLAs along with the district in-charge Minister had met him and the government will take a decision after the July 15 meeting.

Responding to questions on the government’s decision regarding the first aarti at the Tirumala temple, the Chief Minister said: “Since the time of the Mysore Maharajas, Karnataka has had the privilege of the first aarti at Tirupati. Until now, an official used to receive this honour. Henceforth, elected representatives, judges, government officials, members of Parliament, Mayors, tahsildars and other eligible dignitaries from Karnataka visiting the temple will be given this opportunity.”

He clarified that the facility would not be restricted to any political party. “Elected representatives from any party will be eligible, subject to the prescribed guidelines. Our decision is limited to the allotment of the aarti privilege. All other procedures and regulations will continue to be governed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams administration, and we will not interfere with their rules.”

Monsoon Session from August 6

The Monsoon Session of the Karnataka legislature will be held from August 6. “I will travel to Delhi for official work. The party leadership will finalise the schedule within the next three to four days,” he said.