Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister and Water Resources Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, has stated that the state is unable to release Cauvery river water to neighboring Tamil Nadu due to insufficient water storage caused by inadequate rainfall in the river basin region. This declaration follows a recommendation by the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) that Karnataka release 5,000 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu for the next 15 days.

Water Scarcity in Karnataka Shivakumar emphasized that Karnataka currently lacks the necessary water resources to fulfill this recommendation. He stated that the matter will be presented to the higher committee, the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA), where Karnataka’s Secretary is a member. The Deputy Chief Minister clarified that Karnataka would not be able to release water, with priority given to ensuring drinking water availability over agricultural needs.

Supreme Court’s Position Shivakumar noted that the Supreme Court has already conveyed that it will not interfere in the matter, leaving it to the technical committees to decide. He emphasized the difficulty of releasing water given the current situation.

Appeal for Cooperation Regarding any potential legal battles, Shivakumar appealed to the people and opposition parties to cooperate in protecting the state’s interests. He refrained from accusing the committees of political motives, stating that they hold responsible positions and include officials from the central government and both states.

Tamil Nadu’s Plea Tamil Nadu has approached the Supreme Court, requesting a directive to Karnataka to release Cauvery water for standing crops. The case is expected to be heard in the Supreme Court in the coming week.

BJP’s Support Karnataka BJP president Nalin Kumar Kateel urged the state government not to release water to Tamil Nadu and expressed the party’s commitment to stand with the government in any legal battle on the issue. Kateel emphasized the need to protect the state’s interests, particularly in light of drought conditions and a shortage of drinking water.