Defence Minister AK Antony has said that Kerala and Tamil Nadu should initiate steps to amicably settle the Mullaperiyar dam issue and assured all cooperation from the Centre to settle the dispute.

Speaking to media persons in Thrissur today, Mr. Antony said although major political parties have demanded that Centre should intervene, none has suggested how to resolve the Mullaperiyar issue. He said the union government will continue its efforts to resolve the dispute.

The Defence Minister later visited noted Malayalam critic and orator, Sukumar Azhikode who is undergoing treatment at a private hospital.