Considering the fact that the Mullaperiyar dam issue has turn out to be the centre of attention over the past few weeks and considering the complexities in the legal contention made by both parties, the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) appointed Higher Education Minister K Ponmudy as the coordinator in the case. He is now vested with the responsibilities of coordinating with the legal panel, and other senior advocates in acting at the best interest of the state in the case. The case in currently referred to the Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court. Regarding his appointment as the coordinator of the case, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi said that the minister would now monitor the case on behalf of the state.