Special Correspondent

Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Aug 27: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Goa has condemned the attack on state run Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited in Karnataka as a protest over emerging water dispute between both the states.

“Karnataka government is worried that the judgement in connection with the Mhadei Water dispute which is currently before the tribunal would go against them. That is why they are trying to create pressure through such kind of incidents,” BJP Goa unit president Vinay Tendulkar said talking to reporters after writing a letter to the union home minister Rajnath Singh protesting the incident.

The bus of KTCL was put on fire by a group at Hubli, a town on Goa-Karnataka border, during wee hours today. Both the states have entered into a dispute after Karnataka proposed to construct dams on Mhadei (Mandovi) river.

Tendulkar in a letter to Singh has pointed out that last several days have witnessed agitations in parts of Karnataka specially in Hubli district on the issue of Mhadei River Water distribution and attempts by some vested interests to arouse sentiments against Goa.

“I wish to bring to your kind attention that the issue of Mhadei river and its water distribution is presently with Mhadei River Water Tribunal set up by the Union government. The government of Goa on its part has put forth its case before the tribunal in the best interest of the state and is confident of obtaining a favourable verdict,” the letter mentions.

Tendulkar has said in the letter, “Mhadei River is a lifeline of Goa catering to the drinking water needs of the full state and hence the state cannot allow illegal diversion of water from the main course of the river.”

“However, the authorities in Karnataka having failed to put up a solid case with the tribunal has resorted to pressure tactics and agitations and are making attempts for out of tribunal settlements,” he added.

Tendulkar has appealed to Singh to prevail upon Karnataka government to act strictly against the miscreants and to ensure full safety and security of the Goan people in Karnataka and also to Goa registered vehicles passing through the (Karnataka) state.