Fri Jul 25 09:54:43 UTC 2025: ## Summary:
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has criticized Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar after Shivakumar accused Sawant of losing his “mental balance” in the ongoing dispute over the Mahadayi River project. Sawant characterized Shivakumar’s remarks as indicative of “Congress culture.”
## News Article:
**Sawant Slams Shivakumar’s “Mental Balance” Comments as “Congress Culture” in Mahadayi Dispute**
**Panaji, Goa -** The ongoing dispute over the Mahadayi (Mandovi) River project took a sharp turn as Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant vehemently criticized Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar for suggesting that Sawant had “lost his mental balance.” The comments, made amidst the heated debate surrounding the river water sharing, drew immediate condemnation from the Goan leader.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Sawant dismissed Shivakumar’s remarks as a reflection of “Congress culture.” He offered no further elaboration on the alleged connection, but the statement clearly indicates a deepening of the political rift between the two states, both governed by opposing parties.
The Mahadayi River dispute, which has been ongoing for years, centers on the sharing of water from the river, a vital resource for both Karnataka and Goa. While Karnataka seeks to divert water for irrigation and drinking purposes, Goa fears the impact on its water supply, environment, and tourism.
The recent exchange of barbs signals a hardening of positions and further complicates the already complex negotiations between the two states. The future of the Mahadayi project and the water sharing agreement remains uncertain.
First Piper 