Cauvery-dispute: DMK calls for a state-wide shutdown on April 5
DMK has called for a state-wide shutdown on April 5, seeking the constitution of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) by the Centre. Notably, Centre has asked SC for a three-month extension due to the upcoming Karnataka polls. After chairing an all-party meet, DMK working president MK Stalin said party cadres would show black flags to PM Modi during his visit to Chennai on April 11.
What is the Cauvery issue?
This 125 year old dispute refers to clashes between Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Puducherry over sharing the waters of the 765-km long Cauvery River. Karnataka claims that it is the state's sole prerogative to share waters, especially since it needs the river for drinking water and agricultural needs. TN contends that the SC, in its recent judgment, reduced their quota by 14.75tmcft.
So, what does DMK plan to do?
Stalin declared that DMK would take help from the ruling AIADMK to embark on a Cauvery rights retrieval walk from the delta area. However, he didn't elaborate on the plans. He was subsequently detained by the police. Notably, last week, a DMK member asserted that the party might resort to last year's Jallikattu-type protest which brought Chennai to a standstill.
Meanwhile, the AIADMK government isn't far behind in registering protest
Stalin's comments come amid the AIADMK government's move of seeking contempt action against the Centre for "willful disobedience" in carrying out the SC's mandate. Separately, Stalin has acquired support of TN Congress, CPI and CPI(M) and has appealed to farmers and traders for the bandh.
