Supreme Court's Favorable Verdict on Pennaiyar River Dispute

The Tamil Nadu government's persistent efforts have led to a Supreme Court ruling in favor of Tamil Nadu in the Pennaiyar River dispute. The state urges the Union government to quickly establish an arbitration tribunal to enforce the verdict, addressing Tamil Nadu's concerns over water rights with Karnataka.

The Tamil Nadu administration's dedicated campaign to address the Pennaiyar River dispute has culminated in a positive Supreme Court ruling on February 2, as stated by state Water Resources Minister Duraimurugan. This decision has spurred hope among Tamil Nadu residents for prompt action by the Union government to implement the judgment.

Minister Duraimurugan emphasized the need for the Centre to immediately set up an arbitration panel to honor the expectations of Tamil Nadu's populace. The minister expressed this sentiment following the Supreme Court's directive earlier this week, instructing the establishment of a tribunal within one month to resolve the inter-state water dispute involving the Pennaiyar (Thenpennai) River.

The conflict arose when Tamil Nadu filed a lawsuit in 2018 against Karnataka's plans to build check dams and other diversion structures on the river, claiming these actions infringed upon their rights as a lower riparian state. The ruling is a significant step in addressing both states' water-sharing issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)