The water-sharing from Kalasa and Bhanduri — two tributaries of river Mahadayi (Mandovi ) — to the parched districts of north Karnataka districts has become a major stumbling block for the BJP and the ruling Congress ahead of crucial Assembly polls. BJP strongman BS Yeddyurappa has now asked Congress leader Sonia Gandhi who is in Goa to intervene to convince Congress leaders to resolve the contentious issue between Karnataka and Goa.
Yeddyurappa said in Shivamogga on the sidelines of his Rath Yatra on Friday that Sonia Gandhi should convince the Congress leaders from Goa who are opposing release of water for drinking purpose to the north Karnataka districts . He asked her to impress up on the Goa Congress leaders for an amicable settlement of the dispute.
“Sonia Gandhi is currently in Goa on a holiday tour. She should speak to her party leaders as they are opposing release of water by Goa Government ruled by BJP. The State leaders including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah should appeal to her to hold talks with Congress leaders,” he said. He said “BJP has done its best to solve the three decade old Mahadayi issue, but the Congress party instead of extending support our efforts is blaming and provoking farmers against us, “ he said.
“I had held talks with Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar in the presence of BJP National President Amit Shah and Parrikar had agreed for talks. But ruling Congress in Karnataka has taken strong exception for Parrikar writing letter to me instead of Siddaramaiah”, he added.
He said that his party is committed to protect the intrests of the people of Karnataka on water sharing and other issues and the ruling party leaders should extend supporting hand instead of blaming for political gain.
Yeddyurappa answering KS Eshwarappa another senior BJP leader who questioned his decision to announce some of the names for certain constituencies without Clarence and consent from the party high command said party president Amit Shah will take a final call in announcing the candidates for ensuing Assembly polls in Karnataka.