Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) president Kamal Haasan urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to solve the Cauvery water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka at the earliest.

In an “open video” addressed to the PM, the actor-turned-politician put forth his thoughts on the contentious matter that has triggered massive protests in Tamil Nadu by every political party.

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“I am very sure you are aware of the crisis that is gripping Tamil Nadu and the ongoing agitations for the Cauvery water,” Haasan said referring to the hunger strikes, marches, and shutdown call demanding the formation of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB).

“Both pundits and pedestrians alike suspect and believe that this delay in us getting justice is due to the elections in Karnataka and your interest in it. I want for this belief to be dispelled, for people are more important than elections as you well know,” said Haasan.

It is worth noting that the Centre had sought a clarification from the Supreme Court on its 16 February order regarding the formation of CMB asking for three months for implementing its judgment in view of the May assembly elections in Karnataka. The Congress-ruled state will go to polls on 12 May and results will be announced on 15 May.

But hearing a contempt petition against the Centre filed by All Indian Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) on 9 April, the Supreme Court time till 3 May to submit a draft scheme for the sharing of the Cauvery water between Tamil nadu and Karnakata while pulling it up for failing to form the Board within the six-week deadline given to it.

Read More: Supreme Court tells Centre to submit Cauvery draft scheme by 3 May

The apex court had asked why the NDA government brought its questions and doubts over the 16 February judgment at the last moment.

Describing the Cauvery crisis as a “tumultuous moment” for Tamil Nadu, Haasan said that since Modi has previous experience in handling Narmada water crisis situation in his home state of Gujarat, he “could easily deliver the justice Tamil Nadu is seeking”.

“Please do justice for Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, and see that the SC judgment is followed,” urged Haasan.

He concluded his message by stating that he is sure that the PM will do the needful. “You must,” said Haasan followed by a “Namaste”.

The 63-year-old Haasan added that he has sent a letter to the PM to ensure that his complete message demanding water for the farms of the farmers and themselves gets delivered to Modi.

To my Honourable Prime Minister #KamalAppealToPM @narendramodi @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/FXlM7dDO9x

— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) April 12, 2018