How Centuries-Old Cauvery Dispute Between Tamil Nadu & Karnataka Could Become An Early Test For TVK-Congress Alliance

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday chaired a review meeting over Karnataka’s proposed Mekedatu dam project across the Cauvery river, a move that could emerge as an early political test for the newly forged TVK–Congress relationship. The meeting came amid renewed tensions after Karnataka moved ahead with the proposed “Bhumi puja” for the balancing reservoir project at Mekedatu, which Tamil Nadu has consistently opposed, arguing it could adversely impact water flow to the lower riparian state and hurt farmers’ interests.According to an official release, the discussions focused on protecting Tamil Nadu’s rights over Cauvery waters and reviewing the legal options available after the Supreme Court recently dismissed the state’s review plea

linked to the dispute. The chief minister directed officials to expedite legal consultations and further steps in line with the court’s observations."The detailed review meeting was held to establish Tamil Nadu's rights and safeguard farmers' interests," it said.

Cauvery dispute explained

The Cauvery dispute, one of India’s longest-running inter-state river conflicts, centers on sharing river water between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, besides Kerala and Puducherry. Originating during the colonial era, the dispute traces back to agreements signed between the erstwhile Mysore kingdom and the Madras Presidency in 1892 and 1924 over irrigation and dam construction.The issue intensified over the decades as both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu expanded irrigation projects. In 2007, the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal allocated water shares among the basin states, a formula later modified by the Supreme Court in 2018.Under the apex court’s revised order, Tamil Nadu is entitled to 404.25 thousand million cubic feet (tmcft) of water, while Karnataka gets 284.75 tmcft. The court also laid down monthly release schedules and directed the Centre to establish mechanisms for implementation.However, tensions have persisted, particularly during years of poor rainfall. Karnataka has often argued that inadequate monsoon rains in the Cauvery and Kabini catchment areas make water release difficult, while Tamil Nadu has accused its neighbour of withholding its due share.The Mekedatu project has remained especially contentious. Karnataka says the proposed balancing reservoir is aimed at addressing Bengaluru’s drinking water needs and generating power. Tamil Nadu, however, fears the project could allow Karnataka greater control over river flows upstream.The political dimension now adds a fresh layer to the dispute. With the Congress in power in Karnataka, and now also aligned with the TVK in Tamil Nadu, the Cauvery issue could test whether political alliances can override regional interests.For decades, Cauvery has remained an emotionally and politically charged issue in both states, often transcending party lines. Whether alliance politics or regional compulsions prevail this time remains to be seen.