Resolving conflicts over transboundary watercourses: an Indian perspective

Over 85% of the Indian territory lies within its major and medium interstate rivers. Known worldwide as a ‘federation sui generis’, India has the unique distinction of having a federal form of government with a strong unitary bias. This study analyses the sufficiency of the Indian Constitutional provisions and the parliamentary legislations in providing a comprehensive and lasting solution to the problems of interstate rivers in India. The basic philosophies behind the international water sharing laws have been analysed with a view to resolving the interstate water disputes in India. The Constitutional provisions relating to the Centre-state relations are discussed with special emphasis on the provisions relating to the water disputes. The relevant parliamentary legislations have been critically examined. Finally, an action plan has been suggested to resolve the conflicts pertaining to the interstate rivers in India.