Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi on Tuesday criticised the principal Opposition party, All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam for indulging in “unhealthy rivalry” with his party in the Mullaperiyar dispute.
Alluding to the AIADMK general secretary Jayalalithaa’s criticism of the DMK, Mr. Karunanidhi said according to his information, a statement was prepared anticipating that a nominee of the State would be sent to the Empowered Committee constituted by the Supreme Court. But, after the DMK adopted a resolution against participating in the Committee, a fresh statement was issued.
Law Minister Durai Murugan, joining issue with Ms. Jayalalithaa, argued that it was up to the State to be part of the Committee or not.
The DMK had considered the pros and cons of the move, taking into account the interests of the State. The decision was not against the Supreme Court. This was why the general council had, in its resolution, conveyed that the party did not oppose the move but it was in no position to accept the Supreme Court’s direction.
Mr. Durai Murugan asked what punishment the Kerala government had faced for adopting a law that sought to block the implementation of the Court’s judgement in February 2006, which was reiterated twice.
The proposed Committee was not meant for deciding the correctness or otherwise of the Irrigation and Water Conservation Act of Kerala but examining the question of dam safety and water utilisation. Under such cases, how would non-participation amount to supporting the law framed by Kerala, he asked.
Mr. Karunanidhi had participated on eight occasions in negotiations with the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers of Kerala on the Mullaperiyar dam issue. He had written 15 letters to the Prime Minister and Union Ministers for Water Resources and Defence whereas Ms. Jaylalithaa sent only three letters, Mr. Durai Murugan said.
