Karnataka to challenge CWMA order on Cauvery water release

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar chaired a high-level meeting on Friday to discuss the state's response to the Cauvery Water Management Authority's order to release water to Tamil Nadu. The CWMA on Thursday upheld an earlier CWRC directive for Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of water per day for 15 days from July 29, rejecting the state's appeal. Karnataka argues that reservoir levels are low and it faces a drinking water crisis.

The meeting at Vidhana Soudha was attended by Deputy CM G Parameshwara and top officials. Shivakumar said an all-party meeting will be held on August 2 at his official residence to chart the future course. He added that leaders across party lines, including Union ministers and BJP MPs, have extended support to safeguard Karnataka's interests. Shivakumar declined to comment on remarks by Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin, saying the state does not want confrontation.

The Cauvery dispute has triggered protests by farmer and pro-Kannada groups in Karnataka against the water release. The state government maintains water availability must be reassessed before complying with the order.