Deve Gowda makes emotional appeal in Rajya Sabha to protect Karnataka’s water interests

Bengaluru: Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) national president H.D. Deve Gowda made an emotional and powerful appeal in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, urging the Union government to protect Karnataka and address the severe water crisis being faced by the state.

Speaking during the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address, the veteran leader broke down while highlighting the plight of farmers and the drinking water problems in Karnataka.

Raising the issue with visible emotion, Deve Gowda said, “Please save Karnataka. The farmers of my state are in deep distress. I appeal to this House with folded hands to respond to this old man’s request with humanity.” His heartfelt appeal brought a moment of silence across the House, drawing attention from members cutting across party lines.

Referring to the long-pending irrigation projects in Karnataka, the former Prime Minister said several crucial schemes have been awaiting approval for years. “Drinking water has become a major crisis in many parts of Karnataka. Numerous irrigation projects are stuck for want of clearances.

I request the Central government to approve them at the earliest and help solve the drinking water problem of my state,” he said. Deve Gowda also reminded the House that his term in the Rajya Sabha was coming to an end soon.

“My tenure in this House will end in another month. Before I leave, I want to place before you the sufferings of Karnataka’s farmers. We are all human beings. If there is rain, there is water; otherwise, there is none. I appeal to all members of this House to stand for the protection of Karnataka,” he added.

He pointed out that Karnataka has been continuously fighting for its rightful share of water with neighbouring states. “For the last 65 years, I have been fighting for water justice. Karnataka faces problems from Tamil Nadu on one side, Andhra Pradesh on another, and Goa as well.

Water has become the biggest challenge for the state,” he said, without going into details of tribunal verdicts. Expressing confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Deve Gowda urged the Centre to find a permanent solution. “I am with the NDA. My son is part of your cabinet and we will continue to stand with you.

There is no question of changing alliances. My only request is to deliver justice to the people of Karnataka,” he asserted. During his speech, the JD(S) patriarch also praised India’s successful trade agreements with the European Union and the United States, crediting Prime Minister Modi for strengthening India’s global standing.

Taking a dig at the Opposition, Deve Gowda said India was progressing rapidly under the current government. “India is growing economically and people’s incomes are increasing. This government is working for farmers. There is no doubt that by 2047, India will become a developed nation under the leadership of Narendra Modi,” he remarked.

His speech has sparked wide discussions in Karnataka political circles, with many appreciating his strong stand for the state’s interests.

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