Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central and Goa governments over the ongoing Mahadayi water dispute, calling the recent remarks made by Goa CM Pramod Sawant “an insult to the people of Karnataka.”
In a strongly worded statement, Siddaramaiah questioned the Union Government’s silence on the issue and accused it of undermining the spirit of federalism. “Why hasn’t the Union Government officially communicated any concerns? Is this how federalism works under the BJP — through backdoor sabotage, silence, and betrayal?” he said.
The Chief Minister asserted that Mahadayi is not a luxury project but a critical lifeline for North Karnataka. “This is a drinking water project that will benefit over 40 lakh people across Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, Bagalkot, and nearby districts. For decades, our people have waited for justice,” he added.
Referring to the 2018 tribunal verdict that allocated 13.42 TMC of water to Karnataka, Siddaramaiah alleged that the Centre, in collusion with Goa’s BJP government, is deliberately blocking the implementation of the project. “Despite a clear legal allocation, we are being punished. What crime have Kannadigas committed? Are we being targeted for not surrendering to the BJP?” he questioned.
He also criticised the BJP and JD(S) leadership in Karnataka, accusing them of remaining silent on a matter that directly affects the lives of millions. “Their silence today will be remembered tomorrow,” he warned.
Reaffirming his commitment to the cause, Siddaramaiah declared that Karnataka would fight “legally, politically, and morally” until the state receives its rightful share of Mahadayi water.
The Mahadayi dispute, which involves Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra, has remained a politically sensitive issue for years, with the latest exchange reigniting tensions between the states.
