Odisha Proposes State-Led Talks to End Mahanadi Water Dispute as Patnaik Questions Tribunal Path
Majhi has urged bilateral negotiations with Chhattisgarh backed by central government support along with technical assistance from the Central Water Commission to overcome slow tribunal proceedings.
Overview
- On July 23, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi chaired a high-level meeting to advocate direct negotiations with Chhattisgarh under central facilitation.
- Majhi argued that delays in the Central Water Commission’s technical review before the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal justified shifting to state-led talks.
- Advocate General Pitambar Acharya confirmed his participation in the settlement meeting and said it would follow tribunal directions while exploring amicable solutions.
- Opposition leader Naveen Patnaik raised concerns on social media that the government may be sidelining the legal adjudication and demanded full transparency.
- With the next tribunal hearing set for August 2, Patnaik called for an all-party discussion to ensure any mutual agreement safeguards Odisha’s water rights.