Vijay seeks dialogue on Cauvery, says talks can open path to resolution

Tamil Nadu chief minister C. Joseph Vijay on Friday said he was the one who proposed initiating talks with neighbouring Karnataka over the long-standing Cauvery water dispute, expressing hope that dialogue could pave the way for a constructive outcome.

Speaking in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Vijay said his government remained committed to protecting the state's interests through legal means but believed that sincere conversations could also play a role in finding solutions to complex issues.

Responding to leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin's remarks on the Cauvery issue, Vijay recalled the state's approach to the dispute over the decades, from attempts at dialogue since 1969 to pursuing legal avenues when necessary.

Reaffirming that there would be no compromise on Tamil Nadu's legal stand, the chief minister said his government would continue to handle the matter with care and responsibility.

Quoting former Congress leader and former Tamil Nadu Assembly leader of Opposition P.G. Karuthiruman, Vijay said the Cauvery issue required to be approached with patience and sensitivity.

Vijay said he had considered visiting Bengaluru for discussions with Karnataka leaders, driven by the belief that dialogue between neighbouring states could help explore possible solutions.

"I thought, what if talks are held with the neighbouring state? Even nations with deep differences engage in dialogue to resolve issues," he said.

The chief minister added that, in the interest of Tamil Nadu's people, he was prepared to face criticism for taking the initiative, as his intention was to seek a positive outcome through communication and mutual understanding.

He also acknowledged that he had received varied views on the proposed discussions but maintained that efforts towards dialogue were made with the larger public interest in mind.

With PTI inputs