BELAGAVI
While the Supreme Court order regarding the hearing on Monday is still awaited, activists in North Karnataka have stated that Supreme Court’s directives on Mhadei issue is a setback to Goa. They have also accused Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant of misleading the people of Goa.
On the other hand, authorities in Karnataka have preferred to observe silence over Monday’s developments. Sources said the Karnataka government is focused on obtaining necessary clearances from ministries concerned at the Centre.
“We are confident of getting the necessary clearances and also confident of getting justice to the water parched districts of North Karnataka,” a senior official attached to the WRD ministry said.
Speaking to The Goan, noted activist and president of Belagavi District Kannada Organisations Action Committee Ashok Chandargi emphasised that the Supreme Court order on Mhadei issue is a setback to Goa.
“The Supreme Court has already given its green signal on February 20, 2020 for publication of Panchal Tribunal Award in the Gazette. Accordingly, the Union Government published it on February 27, 2020. Now, the Central Water Commission has given approval for the revised DPR on Mhadei to utilise Karnataka’s share of water,” Chandargi said.
Speaking further, he said at this stage Goa as its last attempt has been asked to approach the Supreme Court to stall the implementation of Kalasa Bhandura projects in case Karnataka does it before seeking necessary permissions.
“However, even now Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant is trying to mislead and fool people of Goa, instead of accepting the reality and presenting the clear picture,” alleged Chandargi.
