Bengaluru, July 14 -- Karnataka on Tuesday deferred a decision on releasing Cauvery river water to Tamil Nadu until after the July 15 meeting of the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA), with Chief Minister DK Shivakumar asserting that the state would forcefully defend its interests amid growing pressure over water sharing.
Addressing reporters outside his official residence, Krishna, Shivakumar said Karnataka would place before the Authority the state's drinking water requirements and the concerns of farmers before taking any decision on releasing water to the neighbouring state.
"We have to protect the interests of our farmers, ensure drinking water for our people and also comply with the Supreme Court's directions on Cauvery water...