Bangalore: A delegation of Tamil Nadu headed by its PWD (Public Works Department) Minister O Panneerselvam today (June 16, 2004) met Karnataka Chief Minister N Dharam Singh and handed over to him a letter of request seeking immediate release of Cauvery water for Kuruvai crops.

This is the second delegation from Tamil Nadu to visit Karnataka after the one headed by DMK's (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) Dorai Murgan.

Speaking to reporters, Selvam described the deliberations as "cordial" and said Karnataka has assured to consider the request.

Contrary to Tamil Nadu's claims, Karnataka Minister for Water Resources M Mallikarjun Kharge reiterated that there was no change in the state's stand that it cannot release water at this juncture.

Kharge however said the Government would make a statement on the floor of the house.

Pannerselvam said the delegation handed over the letter written by Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa and Karnataka responded "receptively" to the request.

He said on Karnataka's side, Kharge explained the prevailing situation.

The Tamil Nadu team comprised C Ponniyan, Minister for food and Finance and Dalavai Sundaram, Minister for health.