Bhubaneswar, December 23: Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo assured on Tuesday that the long-standing Mahanadi water dispute with Chhattisgarh will be resolved amicably. The first meeting of the committee formed to address the issue was held, with the participation of senior officials, including the Chief Secretary and the Development Commissioner.

Singh Deo stated that the committee discussed the positions of both Odisha and Chhattisgarh on the dispute, with an emphasis on negotiating a solution that fully safeguards Odisha's interests. The committee aims to formulate a comprehensive strategy to protect the state's rights over the Mahanadi River water.

BJD leader Niranjan Pujari urged the committee to organize an all-party meeting to involve all stakeholders and share the government's proposed resolution. He also called for strengthening Odisha's representation in the tribunal, citing the previous government's efforts in fighting the case.

Congress leader Sofia Firdous, a member of the committee, emphasized the need for a collaborative, evidence-based approach to protect Odisha's rights. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that any resolution is fair, sustainable, and in the public interest.