Karnataka bandh halts flights, CWMA fuels tension

In a statewide response to the Cauvery water dispute, Karnataka witnessed an impactful bandh, with 44 flights cancelled at the Kempegowda International Airport.
State transport operations were severely impacted, particularly in the Cauvery basin districts like Mysuru, Mandya, and Chamarajanagar.
The bandh, endorsed by key figures including Vatal Nagaraj and Praveen Shetty, was marked by peaceful protests, police detentions, and a near-total shutdown. The Kannada film industry, led by actor Shivrajkumar, showcased solidarity by staging a sit-in protest.
Meanwhile, the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) meeting in Delhi dealt a blow to Karnataka. The state has been directed to release 3,000 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu for 15 days. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is considering legal interventions, including a possible appeal to the Supreme Court.
Transportation disruptions led to many passengers missing their connections. Protests also emerged at transportation hubs, with 12 activists detained at Kempegowda International Airport. Roads in multiple cities faced blockades, leading to widespread chaos.
Prominent activist, Vatal Nagaraj, has hinted at further protests, highlighting the ongoing battle for equitable water sharing. As Karnataka grapples with CWMA’s directives and its citizens’ demands, the Cauvery dispute remains at a boiling point.