Lambasting the Karnataka governmentfor "stopping" release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu, key UPA ally DMK today virtually demanded imposition of Central rule in the neighbouring state so as to "teach a lesson to stone-hearted" regimes on inter-state issues.   

"All I request the prime minister is, (he) should come to a conclusion on using Article 356 (relating to President's rule) against Karnataka to ensure that the people of both the states uphold integrity and sovereignty in a spirit of brotherhood," DMK president M Karunanidhi said in a statement.   

He, however, hastened to add that his plea was not motivated by any grudge against those in Karnataka but made"with tears to ensure that grain fields in the state do not turn into graveyards" besides "teaching a lesson to stone-hearted states like Karnataka".