Rivers Of Conflicts: Analysing Interstate Water Disputes
- IJLLR Journal
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 10
Nirmala K, LLM, School of Excellence in Law, The Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University, Chennai
ABSTRACT
In many federal countries, especially those where rivers cross several political and administrative borders, water, a vital resource for life and development, has been a crucial cause of conflict. In these situations, distributing water fairly becomes a difficult task that is made worse by conflicting interests, unpredictable weather patterns, and government constraints. With an emphasis on India, where rivers like the Cauvery, Krishna, and Narmada have long been the subject of heated discussions and court cases, this book explores the dynamics of interstate water disputes. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the study investigates the legal frameworks that control water sharing, such as Supreme Court rulings, tribunal decisions, and constitutional provisions. It critically examines the political factors that frequently affect or intensify disputes, as well as the socioeconomic ramifications for riparian communities that rely on constant and equitable water availability. The research investigates historical grievances, power disparities across states, and the role of popular mobilization in affecting water-sharing outcomes using extensive case studies. Furthermore, the study assesses the efficacy of current institutional procedures, including the Interstate River Water Disputes Act (1956), several river water courts, and ad hoc negotiation groups. It highlights the structural limits of these bodies in making timely, enforceable, and scientifically sound conclusions. The study also analyzes growing concerns such as climate change, rising water demand, and inter-sectoral competition, which exacerbate current tensions and necessitate a new governance model. In the final analysis, the study promotes a change to water governance models that are inclusive, flexible, and sustainable. To settle conflicts and advance long-term water security, it highlights the significance of federal collaboration, data transparency, integrated river basin management, and stakeholder participation. The study adds to the larger conversation on hydropolitics, cooperative federalism, and environmental justice by providing a comprehensive examination of the trends, causes, and methods of resolving interstate water disputes.
Keywords: Interstate Water Disputes, Hydro-politics, Water Governance, Legal Framework, Conflict Resolution
