BJP seeks White Paper on Karnataka's Cauvery legal strategy

The Opposition BJP in Karnataka has demanded a White Paper on the state government's handling of the Cauvery water dispute, following the Cauvery Water Management Authority's (CWMA) directive to release 6,000 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu for the next 15 days.

Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok, addressing the media in Bengaluru, accused the Congress-led government of failing to safeguard Karnataka's interests. He called for identifying and acting against officials whose performance may have fallen short in protecting the state's water rights.

Ashok described the situation as a serious neglect of Karnataka's interests, not merely an administrative lapse. He stressed that releasing water during a period of distress is not feasible and urged the government to approach the Supreme Court immediately to present the ground reality.

The BJP leader demanded full transparency on the state's submissions before the CWMA. He sought public disclosure of the points raised on Karnataka's behalf, whether a report on reservoir conditions was submitted, and if the impact on Bengaluru's drinking water supply and farmers was effectively communicated.

Ashok also called for a permanent technical and legal strategy to strengthen Karnataka's case before central authorities. He cautioned against a pattern of releasing water without adequate storage and expressing regret only after an order is passed.

The opposition has urged the government to seek a review of the CWMA's order and pursue further legal recourse if necessary.