Taking strong exception to Kerala’s reported “unilateral” action in ordering real time monitoring of Mullaperiyar Dam along with the Centre without Tamil Nadu’s consent, the Chief Minister, Ms J. Jayalalithaa, today slammed it as a “blatant violation” of the principle of federalism and constitutional framework.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, she referred to reports of Kerala deciding “unilaterally” to install real time monitoring system for water build up, calling it yet another attempt to exacerbate fears in Kerala about its safety.

She said reports suggested Kerala had entered into an agreement with the Ministry of Science and Technology to install “real time monitoring system for water build up”.

Ms Jayalalithaa accused Kerala of “persistently” engaging in fear mongering about the dam’s safety though the Supreme Court had held in 2006 that the structure is safe and water could be stored initially up to 142 feet.

The apex court appointed Empowered Committee was fully seized of the matter and is due to submit its report shortly, she said, adding that Kerala’s move is an “attempt to present a fait accompli” to the court when the matter is sub-judice.

Noting that the Mullaperiyar Dam and its appurtenant structures were owned and maintained by Tamil Nadu, she urged Dr Singh to direct the Ministry of Science and Technology to immediately desist from entering into any agreement with the Government of Kerala and to annul any agreement if already entered into.

“I also request you to direct the Department of Science and Technology and Government of Kerala not to proceed further in any activity against the established rights of Tamil Nadu, since Tamil Nadu is the incontrovertible sole owner of the Mullaiperiyar Dam and all its appurtenant structure,” she said.

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