Article 262 of the Indian Constitution empowers Parliament to adjudicate disputes relating to waters of inter-state rivers. It allows exclusion of jurisdiction of Supreme Court and other courts in such matters.
According to Seventh Schedule, Water is a state subject, but regulated if inter-state.
Statutory Framework:
Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956: enacted under Article 262, provides for tribunals to adjudicate disputes between states.
River Boards act, 1956: It provides for setting up of boards for inter-state river development.
Issues and Challenges:
1.Tribunals often take 10-30 years to deliver awards
2.Implementation is also delayed due to political opposition
3.Water disputes often escalate into Centre-State or State-State conflicts
4.Different ministries and bodies involved.
