Water related debates are gathering momentum both in India and abroad. In India, there has been talk of bringing the subject of water on the Concurrent List, under which both the Centre and state or states can enact laws. However, in case the Central Government enacts a law relating to water, duly passed by the Parliament, then Central law will prevail over the states and the latter will have to abide it. Keeping in view the burgeoning acute shortage of water, depletion of underground water resources, and fast fading of mountain glaciers, there is a need rationalize the use of water by agriculture, industry and the households. The United Nations’ General Assembly in its October 2010 meeting recognized right to water as a fundamental right. Besides, many Latin American and European countries have already made Right to water as a fundamental Right.
India Water Foundation’s President Dr Arvind Kumar has been campaigning for making Right to Water as a fundamental right for over three years now. He has written many articles in leading journals and magazine to emphasize the need and urgency to recognize Right to Water. Besides, he has written letters to Smt. Sonia Gandhi, UPA Chairperson, PMO and Union Ministry of Water resources in this regard, but elicited no response.
Making Right to Water as a fundamental right is the best answer to deal with water-related issues. While making Right to Water, Duties with regard to Water like water conservation, not to pollute water resources, no wastage etc. should also be incorporated as part of this Right because any right without responsibilities becomes vulnerable to whims and fancies of individuals or institutions.
It seems in the fitness of things to initiate a national debate on this issue in order to sensitize, galvanize and mobilize the people. The more the people become aware of their rights along with corresponding duties, the better it is to elicit their support for the successful programmes. No delay should be brooked in this regard and it should be accorded top priority. Right to Water is as essential as other fundamental rights.
