New Delhi, May 26, 2026: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to dismiss Tamil Nadu’s review petition related to the proposed Mekedatu balancing reservoir project, calling it “good news” for Karnataka.
Speaking to the media at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi, Shivakumar said the Supreme Court’s three-judge bench had rejected the petition filed by Tamil Nadu against the project.
“This is good news for Karnataka. On behalf of the people of Karnataka, we thank the Supreme Court,” the Deputy Chief Minister said.
Shivakumar stated that the Supreme Court had already made its position clear in its earlier order and had directed Karnataka to ensure the release of Tamil Nadu’s share of 177 TMC water.
He added that the next major decision regarding the Mekedatu project now rests with the Central Government.
“The process of submitting the revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) is underway. The Centre now has to take a decision on the project,” he said.
The Mekedatu project has remained a politically sensitive and long-pending issue between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, with both states repeatedly approaching courts and the Centre over the proposed reservoir project across the Cauvery river.
Karnataka has consistently argued that the project is essential for drinking water supply and power generation, while Tamil Nadu has opposed it citing concerns over water sharing.
About the Author
