K’taka to fight Cauvery water release order: CM

Karnataka will challenge an order directing the release of 3,500 cusecs of Cauvery water daily for 15 days, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated Wednesday. The state government plans to appeal to the Cauvery Water Management Authority, citing deficient rainfall across Karnataka.

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The rain god has not been kind to us this time. Earlier, the CWRC had rejected Tamil Nadu’s request for the release of Cauvery water on two occasions. However, this time it has directed Karnataka to release water. We have discussed the legal options with minister Ramalinga Reddy and the officials concerned.

Shivakumar, speaking in New Delhi, said the government had begun preparing its appeal after consulting legal experts and senior officials. He noted that the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee had previously rejected Tamil Nadu's request for water release twice, but issued the directive this time. "The rain god has not been kind to us this time," Shivakumar said, adding that legal options were discussed with the water resources minister.

The state argues that implementing the committee's order could necessitate releasing nearly double the stipulated amount due to dry riverbeds before the water reaches the interstate measuring point at Biligundlu. Shivakumar, who is in the capital for consultations on Cabinet expansion, plans to discuss the issue with opposition leaders upon his return to Bengaluru.

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It is our duty to receive guests visiting our state with due courtesy, and all necessary arrangements have been made to receive him.

He also confirmed that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay had requested a meeting. Shivakumar extended an invitation to Vijay, emphasizing Karnataka's duty to receive guests with courtesy. He urged Vijay to personally inspect the drought-stricken Cauvery basin in Karnataka before forming an opinion on the dispute, offering government arrangements for an aerial visit.

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We have requested Vijay to personally assess the situation in the Cauvery basin of Karnataka that is reeling under drought. I have also informed him that the government will make the necessary arrangements for his aerial visit. He should witness the ground realities himself. Let us see what decision he takes.

The committee's order has sparked protests across Karnataka, with demonstrators concerned about drinking water availability. Agitations were reported in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mandya, and Ramanagara, where various pro-Kannada organizations gathered, carrying empty pots and chanting slogans. Police detained several protesters.

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It has been nearly two months since the monsoon season began, yet not a sing