PM Narendra Modi addressing a public meeting in Dhaka
In a public address organised by the Dhaka University, PM Modi said that he was positive about finding a solution to the Teesta river water issue.
"We have had discussions about it. I think water cannot be a political issue. In fact this we can decide taking a humanitarian approach," the Prime Minister said." Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.
"On the basis of humanitarian approach, we should try and find a solution and I am sure we will be able to do that together and will be able to find ways to resolve it. Constant efforts must be made and we should not lose confidence. An outcome will definitely be there," PM Modi said.
The issue had figured prominently during the delegation level talks PM Modi had with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday.
The Teesta deal was set to be inked during the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to Bangladesh in September 2011 but was postponed at the last minute due to objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Teesta river water is crucial for Bangladesh, especially in the leanest period from December to March when the water flow often temporarily comes down to less than 1,000 cusecs from 5,000 cusecs.
Expressing satisfaction over his talks with Ms Hasina after which a total of 22 pacts were signed, PM Modi said a lot still needs to be done.
"Still a lot has to be done. My country has 1.25 billion people. There are so many states. I have to take them forward together. And when I move forward with Bangladesh, my states will also have to be moved forward," PM Modi said in an apparent indication that Mamata Banerjee will have to be on board in finding a solution to the Teesta water issue.