Cauvery issue: MSMEs facing huge losses in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka

Bangalore/Chennai, Sep 13 (KNN) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday appealed for calm in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu following widespread violence in Karnataka and few incidents in Tamil Nadu on Monday after the Supreme Court refused to freeze its order to release Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu.

PM Modi said he was "personally pained at the developments."

"Violence cannot provide a solution to any problem. In a democracy, solutions are found through restraint and mutual dialogue. This dispute can only be solved within the legal ambit. Breaking the law is not a viable alternative. The violence and arson seen in the last two days is only causing loss to the poor, and to our nation’s property," he said in a statement.

Both states have faced huge losses due to the ongoing agitations which has hit the supply of manufacturing and essential commodities.

Speaking to KNN India on the issue, Vice President of Karnataka Small Scale Industries Association (KASSIA) Hanumanthe Gowda said that since yesterday the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the state are shut down and one cannot take any risk to open the factories due to ongoing outrage.

“Mob is setting up the vehicles on fire. Personally we are supporting the issue because Cauvery is the lifeline of Karnataka,” he said.

He informed that the ministers are meeting over the issue to resolve this as soon as possible. Some decision may come out till the evening but due to the outrage both the government and industry are facing huge losses.

Whereas the President of Tamilnadu Small and Tiny Industries Association (TANSTIA) Muthusami C said that supply of the MSMEs has affected all right from Bangalore from Coimbatore and other areas. The goods vehicles from Tamil Nadu are not allowed to enter in Karnataka.

“No transport vehicle is going Karnataka since past 3-4 days. The business of MSMEs has been totally affected,” said TANSTIA President.

With prohibitory orders already in place and curfew imposed in 15 police station limits, the Bangalore city wore a deserted look. There was heavy police presence across the city and very few vehicles were on the road. Many shops, commercial establishments and offices remained closed, as did many of the eateries and hotels.

While urging citizens to maintain calm and peace, the city police have urged the public to send photos/ videos of Monday’s violence along with the time and place to @btppubliceye (on Twitter). In case of any emergency or in need of assistance, citizens may use Karnataka Police Helpline (18004250100 or 155365). (KNN Bureau)