Bengaluru, Aug. 5 -- Amid the ongoing dispute over the sharing of Cauvery river water, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Wednesday asserted that while Tamil Nadu is acting in the interest of its people, the Karnataka government remains firm and committed to safeguarding the rights and water needs of its own citizens.

Speaking to reporters here on the Cauvery issue, Kharge emphasised that every state government prioritises the welfare of its residents within the framework of state responsibility.

"They (Tamil Nadu) will protect the rights of their citizens. I am duty-bound to protect the rights of my citizens," Kharge said, highlighting the state's resolve to defend its water interests.

The Cauvery water dispute is a long-running int...