Mekedatu and Cauvery issues
The meeting also brought Karnataka and Tamil Nadu’s long-running Cauvery dispute and the proposed Mekedatu balancing reservoir into focus.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay was seated next to Shivakumar at the meeting and spoke with him against the backdrop of disagreements over the Cauvery river and the Mekedatu project.
Tamil Nadu has opposed the proposed reservoir, arguing that it would harm the state’s interests.
Shivakumar, however, said the project would benefit farmers in both states and Puducherry.
“While walking to the meeting, senior leader and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu ji told me that we need to solve the Cauvery water issue between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Let me assure you, every drop of water from the Mekedatu project will help farmers in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Help us help you,” he said.
The Southern Zonal Council comprises Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Keralam, Tamil Nadu and Telangana, as well as the Union Territories of Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
Shivakumar later said the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss shared priorities and issues affecting the development and interests of the southern region. He said Karnataka remained committed to working with neighbouring states to strengthen the region.
Leaders interact on sidelines
Keralam Chief Minister V D Satheesan also met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay on the sidelines of the council meeting.
Sharing photographs on X, Satheesan said he had a “key interaction” with Vijay, with Keralam Industries and Information Technology Minister P K Kunhalikutty also present.
The meeting was attended by chief ministers, deputy chief ministers, ministers and senior officials from the southern states and focused on inter-state and national issues.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay also felicitated Shah during the meeting.
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