Karnataka to decide next move on Cauvery row on Wednesday

Bengaluru: Karnataka will decide on Wednesday its next course of action on the Cauvery row following the Supreme Court`s order to release more water to Tamil Nadu.

"We will decide our next course of action at the council of ministers meeting on Wednesday in consultation with water technical experts and our legal team," Chief Minister Siddaramaiah told reporters on Tuesday night.

Asserting that the state was not in a position to implement the apex court order as the water in the Cauvery reservoirs was just enough for drinking purpose till next June, he said in such a situation it was very difficult to share it as drinking water was a national priority.

"Since we do not have water, it is very difficult to implement the apex court order. It is an unimplementable order," reiterated Siddaramaiah.

A division bench of the apex court ordered the state to release 6,000 cusecs per day from Wednesday for a week till September 27, doubling the quantum fixed by its appointed Cauvery Supervisory Committee on Monday for 10 days till September 30.

The top court's fresh directive comes into force a day after the state completed releasing 12,000 cusecs daily on Tuesday as per the court`s September 12 order, modifying its September 5 order to release 15,000 cusecs daily for 10 days from September 7.

"I have also convened an all-party meeting of the floor leaders of both the houses of the state legislature on Wednesday evening to discuss the apex court order and finalise a joint strategy to protest the interests of the state," said Siddaramaiah.

All members of Parliament from the state, including Union Ministers, and state ministers concerned will participate in the meeting to discuss the issue and arrive at a consensus on how to face the situation arising out of the top court order.

The apex court`s Tuesdays order will be placed at both meetings along with the state`s representation to the supervisory committee meeting and the petitions it filed before thecourt pleading its inability to release any more water for irrigation in the neighbouring state.

The chief minister also appealed to the people to remain calm and maintain peace in the hour of distress as the state was going through a difficult period due to deficit monsoon rains.

"I appeal to the people, especially those in the Cauvery basin areas to maintain peace and not get carried away by emotions. We are committed to protect the interest of the state, its people and its farmers. Everyone should cooperate," added Siddaramaiah.