The Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956

The Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 was enacted by the Indian Parliament to provide for the adjudication of disputes relating to waters of inter-state rivers and river valleys. The Act establishes a legal framework for resolving inter-state river water disputes, which is crucial for the peaceful and cooperative management of water resources. The Act empowers the Central Government to set up a tribunal for the adjudication of disputes and provides for the constitution, powers, and functions of such tribunals. The Act also provides for the enforcement of tribunal orders and the penalties for non-compliance. The Act is applicable to all inter-state river water disputes, and its provisions override any other conflicting laws. The Act has been amended several times to address the changing needs of the country's water management.