Overview
- The bench said the Central Water Commission’s step is limited to preparing a Detailed Project Report after considering Tamil Nadu’s objections and expert inputs.
- It clarified that any DPR can be taken up by the CWC only after prior approvals from the Cauvery Water Management Authority and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee.
- The court reiterated that it lacks technical expertise and that allocation and compliance issues must be placed before the CWMA, CWRC, or CWC.
- It warned that Karnataka could face contempt if it disobeys directions of the Supreme Court or the Central Water Commission.
- It recorded that Tamil Nadu may challenge an approved DPR through legal remedies and that Karnataka remains bound to release water allocated to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.