Overview
- A bench led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai held that the Central Water Commission has only permitted preparation of the DPR, which requires prior concurrence from the CWMA and CWRC before any consideration.
- Reiterating judicial restraint, the court said it lacks technical expertise and directed that water‑management issues be handled by the expert bodies constituted under the Cauvery scheme.
- The court warned that Karnataka must continue releasing water as directed earlier or risk contempt, and noted the CWMA’s role in ensuring compliance.
- If the DPR later receives approval, Tamil Nadu may pursue legal remedies to challenge such a decision.
- Karnataka leaders welcomed the order and indicated they would proceed subject to statutory clearances, while Tamil Nadu leaders criticized the outcome; the proposed reservoir is reported at about 67 TMC capacity with 400 MW hydropower and an estimated cost near ₹9,000 crore.