The Cauvery water dispute is governed by the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956, which empowers the central government to set up tribunals for adjudication. Article 262 of the Indian Constitution provides the framework for the adjudication of disputes relating to waters of inter-state rivers or river valleys, excluding the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in such matters, though the Court acts as an appellate authority under specific legal provisions.

Remember 'Mekedatu' involves the Cauvery river system; remember it as a 'balancing reservoir' project meant for Bengaluru's drinking water needs, which is the primary justification cited by Karnataka.