Overview
- Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justices K. Vinod Chandran and N.V. Anjaria held that Tamil Nadu’s application cannot be entertained at the current stage.
- The bench noted the CWC has only permitted preparation of a Detailed Project Report, with any consideration contingent on prior approval by the CWMA and CWRC.
- Reiterating deference to experts, the court recalled its August 2023 stance that it lacks technical expertise in water-management issues.
- Tamil Nadu argued the proposed 67.16 TMC, ~400 MW Mekedatu balancing reservoir would jeopardize downstream flows and farmers, while Karnataka said it will honor the 177.25 TMC allocation and proceed subject to statutory approvals.
- Karnataka leaders hailed the order as a victory for Bengaluru, as Tamil Nadu officials insisted no go-ahead was given and vowed to press objections before the Cauvery institutions and pursue legal remedies if needed.