Cauvery Dispute Intensifies as Stalin Opposes Vijay's Bilateral Talks

The Cauvery water-sharing dispute has sparked fresh political debate in Tamil Nadu, with DMK president M.K. Stalin urged Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to convene an all-party meeting before holding discussions with Karnataka. Stalin accused the state government of adopting a "unilateral" approach, arguing that a matter affecting farmers and the state's water rights requires political consensus.

The DMK leader said Tamil Nadu should present a united front and rely on its established legal position instead of engaging in bilateral negotiations without consulting political parties. He also claimed that the Chief Minister stands "isolated" on the issue, as several opposition parties have expressed reservations over the proposed talks with Karnataka.

Backing the demand for a stronger legal strategy, the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) welcomed the Tamil Nadu government's decision to move the Supreme Court over the Cauvery dispute. The party maintained that judicial intervention and the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) remain the most effective avenues to safeguard the state's interests. Adding to the pressure, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) president Thol. Thirumavalavan also called for an all-party consultation, saying a unified political position would strengthen Tamil Nadu's case in its efforts to secure its rightful share of Cauvery water.

The developments come ahead of Chief Minister Vijay's proposed visit to Bengaluru for talks on the river dispute. However, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has requested that the visit be postponed, citing protests by pro-Kannada organisations over the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. He has appealed for calm, stating that Karnataka remains bound by legal obligations while monitoring reservoir inflows.

The Tamil Nadu government has defended its stand, saying it is pursuing legal, administrative and diplomatic measures simultaneously to protect the state's interests. It has reiterated its opposition to the proposed Mekedatu project and maintained that dialogue with Karnataka will not weaken Tamil Nadu's legal rights.

As political parties continue to demand greater consultation, the Cauvery dispute has once again emerged as a major flashpoint, with both legal proceedings and political negotiations expected to shape the next phase of the long-running interstate water conflict.