UNI

Bangalore, Feb 13: Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy will soon meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and discuss with him the vexed Cauvery river dispute issue following the tribunal's award on sharing of water among the riparian states.

Talking to newsmen here he said he had sought an appointment from the PMO. If need be, he would lead an all party delegation later, he added.

Replying to queries he said he would convene a meeting of the Members of Parliment before February 22 to discuss various alternative measures following the verdict. An all party meet would also be held in a few days and the leaders of all political parties had been provided with the tribunal's award copy in this regard.

Asked about the alternate measures, he said various options including the centre's intervention were being considered. There was a need for the centre to realise the gravity of the situation and provide succour to the people of the state keeping in view the history of the dispute.

Asked to comment on the absence of Congress leaders in the Assembly, he said each political party had its own right and way to protest on the issue. He felt that he did not want the legislature to support the bandh as it would send wrong signals.

Asked about his party's stand on the issue, he said it was for his party President to react. When he was reminded about his resignation in connection with the issue, he said he would do it at an appropriate time.

Kumaraswamy, who held a top level official meeting in presence of Chief Secretary P B Mahishi and Director General of Police K Srinivasan, said the situation was well under control. He thanked the people of the state for maintaining peace during the bandh.