LANGUAGE IN INDIA

Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow

Volume 25:12 December 2025
ISSN 1930-2940

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Media Influence on Public Perception of the Mekedatu Project within the Cauvery Water Dispute: A Primary Survey-Based Study in Karnataka

Mr. Jenin Raj. S and
Dr. S. Nandakumar

Abstract

The Mekedatu project has once again become a major talking point in Karnataka, especially after recent court updates and political statements about the Cauvery water dispute. People keep hearing different things on TV, social media, and online news, and this study tries to understand how all that information actually shapes their views. Using survey responses from people across Karnataka, the research looks at two things: whether frequent media exposure influences their attitude, and whether people who depend on different media sources think differently about the project. The results showed a strong link between how much media people consume and how strongly they feel about Mekedatu. The ANOVA test also found clear differences between traditional and digital media users, with online and social media users showing stronger opinions overall. These findings suggest that the type of media people follow plays a big role in shaping their understanding of the project and the wider Cauvery issue.

Keywords:Mekedatu Project, Media Exposure, Public Attitude, Cauvery Water Dispute, Media Influence.

Introduction

The Mekedatu project has become one of the most discussed water-related issues in Karnataka, mainly because it is connected to the long-running Cauvery water dispute. The project has received renewed attention due to recent legal and political developments, making it a prominent topic in public conversations. As news spreads through television, online platforms, and especially social media, people are exposed to different opinions, arguments, and interpretations. This constant flow of information shapes how citizens understand the project and its possible impact. Youth audiences, who are more active on digital platforms, tend to form their views based on the media they consume. However, very little research has explored how media exposure actually influences public perception of Mekedatu. Most discussions remain political or technical, leaving a clear academic gap. This study aims to understand how media shapes awareness and attitudes, and whether different media sources influence people in different ways. The findings will help explain how public opinion develops in large infrastructure debates.

Background of the Study The Mekedatu project has become one of the most debated water-infrastructure proposals in Karnataka, mainly because it is closely tied to the long-standing Cauvery water dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Recent political announcements, legal developments, and media reporting have brought the issue back into public discussion. For instance, the Supreme Court's observations that Tamil Nadu's objections were “premature” triggered renewed attention across news platforms (Hindustan Times, 2025). State leaders have also frequently used media statements to communicate progress, such as the submission of a fresh Detailed Project Report to the Centre (Hindustan Times, 2025). Media coverage often mixes legal updates, political reactions, and public sentiment, shaping how people interpret the intentions and implications of the project (The Print, 2025).

This is only the beginning part of the article. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE IN PRINTER-FRIENDLY VERSION.

Mr. Jenin Raj. S
PhD Research Scholar,
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication,
Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
drjrsmedia@gmail.com
&
Dr. S. Nandakumar
Professor and Head,
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication,
Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
Nandakumar.su@gmail.com

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