New Delhi, July 29: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced on Wednesday that the state government will appeal against the order to release Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu. He noted that Karnataka is facing a monsoon deficit this year, stating, “The rain god Varuna has not favored Karnataka.”
Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Shivakumar mentioned that discussions had already taken place with Water Resources Minister Ramalinga Reddy and senior officials regarding the legal options available to challenge the order.
He pointed out that the Cauvery Water Regulatory Authority (CWRA) had previously rejected Tamil Nadu’s requests twice. However, this time, they have issued an order to release some water. “We are preparing to file an appeal against this order,” he stated.
The Chief Minister added that the state’s Advocate General, legal experts, and government officials are considering whether to approach the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) or seek immediate relief from the Supreme Court. “Our Advocate General and officials are making preparations. Ministers have also consulted legal experts. We have left it to them to decide whether to file the appeal with the CWMA or the Supreme Court. We want immediate relief,” he emphasized.
Shivakumar further mentioned that upon returning to Bengaluru, he will meet with opposition leaders to discuss the Cauvery issue and formulate a collective response.
It is noteworthy that the CWRA, responding to Tamil Nadu’s demand for its water quota for June and July, ordered the release of 3,500 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu for 15 days starting July 29, 2026, totaling approximately 4,000 million cubic feet.
In relation to the controversy over the alleged police firing on students in Delhi, Shivakumar supported opposition leader Rahul Gandhi‘s statements, asserting that the incident raises serious questions. “This is not just Rahul Gandhi’s concern; it is a matter related to the country. Students are questioning the government. Who authorized the police to fire on students?” he asked.
He pointed out that policing in Delhi falls under the central government’s jurisdiction and called for clarification from the Union Home Minister regarding the incident. “We are witnessing such an event for the first time in the country. It is the duty of the Union Home Minister to explain what happened,” he stated.
When asked about the much-anticipated expansion of the Karnataka Cabinet, Shivakumar replied that discussions have taken place, and he needs to complete the final round of talks with party leadership. “We have had discussions. I need to finalize the last round of talks. Our leaders have informed us that they will call us,” he concluded.
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