Interim order to hold till SC decides on maintainability of States’ pleas against tribunal award The Supreme Court on Tuesday acknowledged that both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are in dire need of water, but warned the State governments that it will not tolerate any acts of violence from its citizens over the Cauvery water dispute. “Common sense should prevail, especially when the dispute is before us and we are trying to resolve the crisis. We warn you with absolute seriousness that citizens cannot be a law unto themselves. Peace and harmony must be maintained. Mutual respect between both States and its citizens should prevail,” the Supreme Court said. A three-judge Bench, led by Justice Dipak Misra, extended its October 4, 2016 order, directing Karnataka to release 2,000 cusecs to Tamil Nadu. This interim arrangement will continue till the court gives further orders. The Bench, also comprising Justices Amitava Roy and A.M. Khanwilkar, will continue to hear the question of maintainability of the appeals filed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala against the 2007 final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal. The next hearing is scheduled for October 19.