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Goa Gears Up for SC Battle in Mhadei Water Dispute, CM Sawant Expresses Confidence in Strong Legal Stand

Herald Team

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has affirmed the government's steadfast commitment to the Mhadei issue, emphasizing the rigorous efforts being undertaken. The Advocate General and the entire panel are actively conducting reviews, bolstered by the assurance that Goa's strong evidence will lead to a favourable outcome in the Supreme Court.

With five cases already in progress at the Supreme Court, Chief Minister Sawant is optimistic about Goa's success in the Mhadei case. Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar shares this confidence, specifically citing the Special Leave petition (SLP) on Mhadei water diversion filed by the Goa government. The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for Goa's SLP on November 29.

Minister Shirodkar expressed his anticipation, stating, "Hopefully, it (SLP) will come up for hearing on either November 28 or 29. We are confident that the order would be in our favour." He emphasized the technical strength of Goa's case, reiterating his unwavering belief in the merits of their argument.

In July of the current year, the Supreme Court admitted the special leave petition from the Goa government challenging the award issued by the Mhadei Water Disputes Tribunal. The Apex Court had earlier directed the Centre to notify the tribunal's award dated August 14, 2018, in an interim order.

Responding to Karnataka's Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the Kalasa-Bhanduri water diversion project, Minister Shirodkar disclosed plans to appoint an agency for a comprehensive investigation of the sites involved. The agency, to be selected within the next six months, can be either a state or central government entity. The study's objective is to submit a detailed report within the specified timeframe, ensuring a thorough examination of the matter at hand.

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