Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 31st Southern Zonal Council meeting on Thursday at Kovalam near Chennai, where chief ministers of the southern states gathered to discuss a range of inter-state and national issues. One of the key subjects raised during the meeting was the proposed delimitation exercise, with Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar highlighting the concerns of southern states regarding its possible impact on political representation. The council meeting served as a platform for state leaders to exchange views on governance, regional cooperation, and issues affecting the southern region.

The meeting also witnessed an important interaction between Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Against the backdrop of the long-standing Cauvery river water-sharing dispute and the Mekedatu dam project, the two leaders were seen engaging in discussions during the session. Vijay, who was seated next to Shivakumar, also felicitated Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the event, reflecting the formal and cooperative nature of the gathering despite differences over several inter-state matters.

The Southern Zonal Council meeting focused on strengthening coordination among southern states while addressing issues that require cooperation between state governments and the Centre. Leaders deliberated on matters related to regional development, administrative coordination, and national priorities. The discussions are expected to contribute to improving inter-state collaboration and finding common ground on important policy matters affecting the southern region of the country.