Centre knows meaning of scheme, implications of forming CMB: Tamilisai Soundararajan

Chennai: The state unit of the BJP lashed out at fisheries minister D. Jayakumar for his remark belittling the Centre on Cauvery issue and alleged he did not appear to be “serious” of the implications of the subject.

“He (Mr. Jayakumar) could have jocularly spoken about looking up for the dictionary meaning of 'scheme,' but is he aware that States have to give up their rights on dams to the board once it is formed?” BJP state president Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan asked. When asked if the minister's remark did not amount to ridiculing the BJP-led government at the Centre, she replied, “Jayakumar appears to have said it in lighter vein. He himself knows that what he is saying is wrong.”

While criticising the Central government for approaching the Supreme Court seeking clarification on the word 'scheme' in the Cauvery conflict verdict, the minister on Sunday told reporters in Chennai, “if the Centre really doesn't know the meaning of 'scheme,' mentioned in the judgment, then it should look up for the meaning in the dictionary.”

Speaking to DC she said when a board is constituted, the respective States should hand over the custody of the dams to the board. “Is the State government willing to accept it. There are many complicated procedures which need to be addressed before forming the Cauvery Management Board. The board cannot be formed just like that,” she said.

In a lighter vein, Dr Tamilisai said, “I don't think it's a serious answer to be concerned. I personally brush away his (Mr. Jayakumar's) comments.” She also flayed the Opposition parties and fringe elements which staged black flag protests during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the city on April 12 and said they were politicising the issue. The Supreme Court is aware of the developments and the Cauvery issue can only be resolved legally, she insisted.