Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-state water disputes have failed to address and solve the problems. Is the failure due to structural or process inadequacy or both? Discuss. (250 words)

अन्तर- राज्य जल विवादों का समाधान करने में सांविधानिक प्रक्रियाएँ समस्याओं को सम्बोधित करने व हल करने में असफल रही हैं। क्या यह असफलता संरचनात्मक अथवा प्रक्रियात्मक अपर्याप्तता अथवा दोनों के कारण हुई है ? विवेचना कीजिए । (250 शब्द)

Structure of the Answer

Introduction

• Establishing the background of India’s federal setup underscores the essential requirement for mechanisms to resolve inter-state conflicts.
• Among these, water disputes hold particular significance due to their complex socio-economic, political, and environmental dimensions. 

Body

• Explain the constitutional provisions, including relevant entries in the State and Union Lists, along with the significance of Article 262 in addressing water disputes.

• Detail the purpose and functions of the River Boards Act and the Inter-State Water Disputes Act.

• Highlight the key challenges in the current framework, such as procedural delays, lack of technical input, and political interference.

• Use the Mahanadi dispute as a case example to illustrate real-world difficulties in resolving such conflicts.

• Suggest reforms to strengthen and streamline the dispute resolution process for improved effectiveness.

Conclusion

• Highlight the importance of timely and impartial dispute resolution in reinforcing India’s federal structure and promoting fair allocation of shared resources.