Tamil Nadu and Kerala in Fresh Standoff Over Mullaperiyar Dam

Tensions between Tamil Nadu and Kerala have escalated following conflicting policy statements over the Mullaperiyar dam on their shared border. During its policy address, the Tamil Nadu government announced it will not approve a new dam project on the Mullaperiyar river and accused Kerala of obstructing efforts to raise water levels at the existing structure. Tamil Nadu stated it would proceed with repairs to the current dam and work to increase water levels, directly challenging Kerala's plans for alternative infrastructure.

Kerala's government has maintained its position that existing infrastructure is sufficient and reiterated its refusal to permit construction of a new dam. Officials emphasized that the state remains opposed to central government interference in regional water management and will continue pursuing its development agenda. The dispute highlights deeper disagreements between the two states over resource allocation and autonomy in managing shared water resources.

The controversy has taken on wider political dimensions, with Tamil Nadu reaffirming its commitment to regional linguistic and cultural policies, including resistance to trilingual education frameworks. The state's DMK opposition party staged protests during the assembly session, criticizing perceived inaction on various issues. Despite the shifting political landscape in both states, the fundamental disagreement over the Mullaperiyar dam remains unchanged, suggesting the dispute will persist regardless of electoral outcomes.