BENGALURU: Karnataka has released 1.2tmc feet of Krishna river water from Almatti and Narayanpur reservoirs to Telangana’s downstream Jurala project, citing the need to meet the latter’s water requirements.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from BJP, which accused the Congress govt of compromising the state’s interests.
Opposition leader R Ashoka launched a scathing attack on the govt, likening the decision to historical betrayal. “Our govt is surpassing even Mallappa Setty and Mir Sadiq in betrayal,” he alleged, referring to figures accused of colluding against Indian warriors during the freedom struggle.
“Last year, despite the severe drought, the Congress govt secretly released Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. Now, without considering the scorching summer, it is releasing 1.2tmc of water from Almatti and Narayanpur reservoirs to Telangana,” he added.
Ashoka accused deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, who holds water resources portfolio, of disregarding official advice and opposition from farmers’ organisations.
“Shivakumar, even after officials have stated that releasing water now would harm the state and despite opposition from farmers’ organisations, you are still releasing water to Telangana for your political gains.
Have you made any secret deals with Telangana Congress leaders to lobby the Congress high command for the CM’s seat?” Ashoka asked.
“Is your political self-interest more important than protecting the interests of the state’s farmers and common people? On whose authority did you permit Karnataka’s water to be released to Telangana?” he added.