Tamil Nadu claims Cauvery deficit before SC as Karnataka cites drought stress

The Cauvery water row escalated during proceedings before the Supreme Court, with Tamil Nadu asserting it faces a significant shortfall of 20 TMC in water allocation from the interstate river. The state pressed its case for higher releases from the reservoir system, citing agricultural and drinking water requirements across its districts.

Karnataka responded by highlighting the severe drought conditions affecting several of its districts, arguing that reduced water availability constrains its ability to meet Tamil Nadu's demands while managing its own water crisis. The state sought consideration of its domestic water security challenges in the court's deliberations on the longstanding dispute.

The Supreme Court granted Karnataka one week to submit a detailed written response to Tamil Nadu's claims. The bench deferred substantive arguments to the next hearing scheduled for October 12, providing both states time to compile supporting evidence and data for their respective positions.

The Cauvery dispute remains one of India's most contentious interstate water conflicts, with Tamil Nadu and Karnataka locked in disagreement over river water sharing for decades. The Supreme Court has been overseeing implementation of earlier orders while adjudicating fresh petitions on water distribution between the two states.