Kerala Congress Demands Federal Intervention for New Mullaperiyar Dam Construction
The Kerala Congress has formally called on the Union government to mediate a new dam agreement at Mullaperiyar to resolve long-standing safety concerns. During a state-level meeting, party leaders also voiced significant frustration over their treatment within the UDF coalition.
Push for a Permanent Mullaperiyar Solution
The Kerala Congress has urged the Union government to break the long-standing deadlock over the Mullaperiyar dam by facilitating a consensus between Kerala and Tamil Nadu through the Supreme Court. During a two-day state-level leadership camp held at Charalkunnu in Pathanamthitta on July 24 and 25, 2026, the party passed a resolution identifying a new structure as the only viable exit strategy for the interstate dispute.
Party leaders argued that the Centre must design a framework that prioritizes the physical safety of Kerala's residents without compromising the water volume promised to Tamil Nadu. The resolution suggests that a dual-purpose proposal focusing on both safety and water security would likely gain acceptance from both state governments.
Coalition Friction and Ministerial Demands
Beyond regional water security, the meeting exposed deep-seated tensions within the United Democratic Front (UDF). A segment of the Kerala Congress leadership used the platform to criticize the Congress party for its perceived disregard for coalition partners once electoral cycles conclude. Specific grievances raised during the camp include:
- Ministerial Underrepresentation: Despite securing victories in seven of the eight Assembly seats contested, the party occupies only one ministerial post, currently held by Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph.
- Administrative Appointments: Leaders demanded the party assert its right to significant roles in statutory boards and government bodies.
- Collective Mandate: Members reminded the Congress that the current governing mandate belongs to the UDF collective rather than the lead party alone.
The event, which saw the participation of high-ranking officials including Party Chairman P.J. Joseph and Minister Mons Joseph, concluded with a call for the Congress to respect the contributions of its allies. The leadership emphasized that the party's success at the polls warrants a second ministerial berth, a request that currently remains unaddressed within the coalition hierarchy.
Source: The Hindu — News
