Pramesh S Jain
*Decision on Cauvery water release after July 15 meeting*
*First aarti at Tirupati to be reserved for Karnataka public representatives and officials*
*Monsoon Session to commence from August 6*
Bengaluru, July 13:
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Monday said the government need to balance the interests of Karnataka’s farmers, ensure drinking water supply, and comply with court directions while taking a decision on the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu.
Speaking to the media at the CM’s home office, Krishna, the CM said that We must protect our farmers, ensure drinking water, and follow the court’s order. The Cauvery Water Management Authority meeting is scheduled for July 15. We will present Karnataka’s case there and announce our decision thereafter.
Responding to a question on the demand made by MLAs from Mandya regarding the release of Cauvery water, he said, Mandya and Srirangapatna MLAs along with the district in-charge minister have met me . The government will take a decision after the July 15 meeting.
Replying to the media on the suspension of the KPSC Chairman, the CM said “the Governor has issued the suspension order. I have directed that the senior-most official be entrusted with the responsibilities”.
*First aarti at Tirupathi for Karnataka representatives and officials*
Responding to questions on the government’s decision regarding the first aarti at the Tirumala temple, the CM said, “Since the time of the Mysore Maharajas, Karnataka has had the privilege of the first aarti at Tirupati. Until now, an official used to receive this honour. Henceforth, elected representatives, judges, government officials, Members of Parliament, mayors, tahsildars and other eligible dignitaries from Karnataka visiting the temple will be given this opportunity.”
He clarified that the facility would not be restricted to any political party. “Elected representatives from any party will be eligible, subject to the prescribed guidelines. Our decision is limited to the allotment of the aarti privilege. All other procedures and regulations will continue to be governed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams administration, and we will not interfere with their rules.”
*Monsoon Session from August 6*
Replying to questions on the Cabinet meeting and his proposed visit to New Delhi, Shivakumar said, “It has been decided to convene the Monsoon Session of the Legislature from August 6. I will travel to Delhi for official work. The party leadership will finalise the schedule within the next three to four days.”
Paying tribute to former Rajya Sabha member H. Hanumanthappa, he said, “H. Hanumanthappa was a senior Congress leader who served three terms in the Rajya Sabha and also chaired the Railway Commission.
I shared a close association with him for 45 years.He served the party as Vice-President and Parliamentary Secretary.
Along with KPCC President B.K.Hariprasad, Deputy Chief Minister Dr.G.Parameshwara and Minister K.H. Muniyappa,I have paid my last respects to him.
Leaders like him guided both Karnataka and the nation on several important issues. It is our duty to honour his legacy. May his soul rest in peace, he added.
