‘Personally pained at Cauvery developments’

As protests continue in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over the sharing of Cauvery water, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the people to stop the violence.

Terming the situation as distressful, Modi said he is personally pained at the developments. “Violence cannot provide a solution to any problem. In a democracy, solutions are found through restraint and mutual dialogue. This dispute can only be solved within the legal ambit. Breaking the law is not a viable alternative. The violence and arson seen in the last two days is only causing loss to the poor, and to our nation’s property,” he said in a statement.

“I am personally pained at the developments,” said the PM.

Observing that the people of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have always handled the situation with sensitivity, he urged them to keep in mind their civic responsibilities.

“I trust you will keep national interest and nation-building above all else, and give priority to restraint, harmony and finding a solution, eschewing violence, destruction and arson,” he added.

His Cabinet colleague Venkaiah Naidu said such violence can’t be justified on any ground and particularly, after the direction of the Supreme Court.

Sensitive issue

“Water is no doubt a sensitive and emotive issue, particularly at times of scarcity. It is in the fitness of things that such issues are resolved through discussions among the concerned parties. The Cauvery water issue is sub judice and the Supreme Court has given a direction after listening to both the States. If still there are any issues, the leadership of both the States could discuss the same and come out with a way forward,” said the Urban Development Minister.

The opposition parties have also appealed for peace. The CPI(M) Politburo said in a statement on Tuesday that it is shocked and dismayed at the reports of violence and arson in Karnataka and some parts of Tamil Nadu. Appealing for calm, it urged the State governments to ensure the protection of lives and property.

The CPI(M) further said the long-standing dispute over sharing of the Cauvery waters can only be resolved through negotiations and a mutual agreement.