'Would be better if IPL matches are not played in Chennai,' says Rajinikanth amid Cauvery row

Amidst the battle between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over Cauvery issue, actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth said that it is important to focus on the Cauvery matter rather than the cricket IPL.

Stating that it is "embarrassing"to hold Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in Chennai, while the state is grappling with Cauvery row, Rajinikanth said that it would be better if the matches are not played in Chennai and be more sensitive to the farmershit with severe shortage of water.

He even requested BCCI to allow Chennai players to wear black bands and play matches in support of the Cauvery issue.

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The superstar said the Chennai team ought to fight for the people.

"If not then at least acknowledge the fight of the people of Tamil Nadu. Our team should wear a black band. Those who go for the match can also wear a black band."

Previously, Kamal Hassan had also voiced his concerns over hosting IPL matches in Chennai.

Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Dhanush, Vijay, Surya, Sathyaraj, Sivakumar, Nassar, Vishal, Karthi and Sivakarthikeyan on Sunday observed a silent protest demanding the creation of the Cauvery Management Board.

Calling the setting up of Cauvery Management Board a fair demand, Rajinikanth said that that the Centre should pay it immediate attention. “I’d like to tell the Centre that, what every Tamilan unanimously wants is CBM. If you don’t set up the board at the earliest, you will be subjected to the anger and disappointment of every Tamilan,” Rajinikanth said.

He also said people from different walks of life have been protesting across Tamil Nadu for the welfare of poor farmers.

“To many, it’s unclear who we are protesting for. We are not protesting for the benefits of rich farmers with hundreds of acres of land. We are doing it for poor farmers whose livelihood depends on the farm produce they make from a piece of land they own,” he said adding that even though Karnataka’s politicians might not understand the agony, the poor farmers of Karnataka will.

Tamil Nadu has moved a contempt plea in the Supreme Court, seeking action against the Centre for allegedly failing to form the Cauvery Management Board within six weeks as ordered by the court on February 16.