New Delhi, March 18: Following the completion of assembly elections in several states, a multi-party delegation from Karnataka is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Jal Shakti. This announcement was made by Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who stated that the decision was taken during a meeting with Karnataka MPs.
Shivakumar addressed the media after a meeting with state MPs at the Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday night. He mentioned that the meeting aims to discuss irrigation-related issues affecting the state, as well as to address minor concerns regarding projects like Mahadayi, Krishna, Tungabhadra, and Bhadra. The delegation will also review the status of irrigation schemes and explore ways to advance them.
He emphasized the necessity of scheduling a meeting with the Prime Minister and relevant ministers, suggesting that the date be set after the elections in some states are concluded. “We have agreed to their request, and thus, we have postponed the meeting to a later date,” Shivakumar said.
Shivakumar noted that elections have been announced in some states, and the decisions made could impact them. He reiterated that all parties should work together for the state’s interests, stating, “We have worked together before and will continue to do so.” The intention is to send a united multi-party delegation to collectively work for the welfare of the state.
He also informed that the land acquisition process for the Upper Krishna Project (UKP-3) has begun, with the government moving forward to acquire 1.33 lakh acres of land at mutually agreed compensation. He highlighted that sufficient funds have been allocated in the budget, marking a historic decision. Regarding the Cauvery issue, he assured that the government would proceed according to the Supreme Court’s orders.
The meeting was organized after discussions with the Union Minister for Jal Shakti and Minister Prahlad Joshi, and it saw participation from 24 MPs. Shivakumar thanked all MPs for their attendance and provided information about the development under the BJP government and the current government’s efforts to advance projects.
He further mentioned that he and the ministers had met with the government’s legal team, expressing confidence in their commitment to work in the public’s interest. “We will resolve all irrigation-related issues,” he assured.
In response to a question regarding environmental clearance for the Yettinahole project, he stated that the government has been awaiting approval for the past year and is ready to commence work immediately, with half of the work already completed. He confirmed that they will proceed according to the stipulated conditions.