Stalin says Centre promised to block Mekedatu
CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin called on President Ramnath Kovind in New Delhi on Monday.
Later, Stalin told the media that he has obtained the promise from the Union government that it will not allow Karnataka to build a dam in Mekedatu, the border point where the neighbouring state plans to block Cauvery river water.
Officials said in Chennai that Stalin did not meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who on Monday was busy with the opening of the Parliament session. “The meeting has been deferred,” officials said. During his previous visit to Delhi, Stalin met Modi and requested intervention to prevent the Mekedatu dam, which will deny water to delta farmlands.
The CM ruled out any talks with the Karnataka government on Mekedatu.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Jal Shakti have assured Tamil Nadu that Karnataka will not be allowed to proceed on the project,” he said.
“Moreover, the issue is before the Supreme Court. We will face the issue legally,” Stalin added.
Stalin met the President around noon, officials said.
Apart from a courtesy call, Stalin also wanted to invite Kovind to preside over the Tamil Nadu Assembly Centenary celebrations and unveil the statue of late chief minister M. Karunandhi, Stalin’s father.
His Sister Kanimozhi and cousin Dayanidhi Maran, both Lok Sabha members, accompanied him.
“The President has agreed to atend the centenary celebrations,” Stalin told the media.
“A portrait of Kalainjar (Karunanidhi) will be unveiled by the President during the celebration.
“The President has agreed also to lay the foundation stone for a library to be set up in the name of Kalainjar in Madurai. The date of the ceremony will be announced in a couple of days.”
Asked specifically about reopening of schools, Stalin said “there is currently no environment for schools or colleges to open. “
A decision on opening them would be taken in due course, as the pandemic recedes. Officials said Stalin also raised the Mekedatu and NEET issues with the President.
Tamil Nadu state board results for Plus Two were released on Monday.
School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi said provisional mark sheets will be available from July 22. As usual, girls have outshone boys in the results.