SC tells state to consider releasing Cauvery water

 The Supreme Court on Friday asked Karnataka to consider releasing Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu, keeping in line with the principle of “live and let live”.

“We are of the view that there has been a deficit for three months (in the release of water) therefore, an attempt must be made to release some water. At least live up to the formula suggested by the tribunal,” a bench of Justices Dipak Misra and U U Lalit said, making an oral suggestion to senior advocate F S Nariman, appearing for Karnataka.

The court, favouring a “harmonious” resolution of the water disputes, will hear Tamil Nadu’s plea on Monday. The state sought direction to Karnataka to release 50.052 tmcft of Cauvery water from its reservoirs for samba cultivation.

In his submission, Nariman maintained that the Cauvery Water Dispute Tribunal did not mention anything about deficit and distress year.

Since the supervisory committee had already been formed, it has to be approached for the implementation of the 2007 award, he submitted, adding that Tamil Nadu was seeking water despite having the benefit of two monsoons.

Senior advocate Shekhar Naphade, representing Tamil Nadu, submitted that Karnataka denied the state its due as water was not being released to the Mettur dam. In case of shortfall, the state has to comply with the formula, he said.

“We can't assume where rainfall would be less or more. If the tribunal has suggested some formula, Karnataka is bound by it. How can they get away it?” the bench said.
Naphade cited a statement by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah that not a single drop of water would be released. Nariman, however, asked him not to allude to his statement, but he shot back, saying he was the head of the executive.

The bench, however, said there could be two ways of resolving the issue, either by referring it to the supervisory committee or by deciding it in the apex court.
Tamil Nadu's counsel said the matter should be decided in the court.