Kathmandu— Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Member of Parliament Tiruchi Siva moved a notice under Rule 267 in the Rajya Sabha on Monday, requesting the suspension of regular rules to discuss the proposed Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir project on the Cauvery River and its impact on Tamil Nadu. The move comes amid heightened tensions between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over water sharing.

Request for Rule Suspension

In his notice to the Secretary-General of the Rajya Sabha, Siva sought permission under Rule 267 to suspend Rules 15, 23, and 51, as well as any other listed business on August 3, 2026. He emphasized that this suspension is necessary to address the urgent issue of the proposed Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir project and its implications for Tamil Nadu.

Siva’s notice outlines a specific agenda for the requested discussion, focusing on the need to form a tribunal to resolve the contentious water-sharing dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Background of Cauvery Water Dispute

The Cauvery water dispute is a long-standing inter-state conflict primarily involving Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The disagreement centers on how the waters of the Cauvery River should be shared, especially during periods of low rainfall. This issue has resurfaced due to recent developments concerning the Mekedatu balancing reservoir project proposed by Karnataka.

Tamil Nadu opposes the project because it fears that the dam will reduce water flow downstream, affecting its agricultural and domestic needs.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.