Article 262 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Parliament to adjudicate inter-state water disputes.

Inter-state water disputes are a common occurrence in India due to the country's federal structure and the presence of numerous rivers that flow through multiple states. To ensure fair resolution of such disputes, the Indian Constitution has provided for a specific mechanism under Article 262.

Role of Parliament:
The primary responsibility for adjudicating inter-state water disputes lies with the Parliament. It has the authority to pass legislation that sets up a tribunal to resolve these disputes. The Parliament can also provide for the composition, functions, and powers of such tribunals through the enactment of laws.

Background:
The need for a centralized authority to resolve water disputes arose due to the complex nature of these conflicts. Water is a critical resource, and disputes over its distribution can have far-reaching consequences for the affected states. Prior to the implementation of Article 262, the resolution of inter-state water disputes was a challenging task, often leading to prolonged litigation and political conflicts.

Creation of Water Disputes Tribunal:
To address these challenges, the Parliament, under Article 262, can establish a Water Disputes Tribunal. This tribunal consists of a panel of experts who possess the necessary qualifications and experience in dealing with water-related matters. The tribunal is responsible for examining the facts and circumstances of the dispute and making an impartial decision based on the available evidence and legal provisions.

Benefits of Parliament's Role:
The inclusion of the Parliament in the process of adjudicating inter-state water disputes brings several advantages:
1. Centralized Authority: The involvement of the Parliament ensures a centralized authority that can make decisions in the best interest of all the states involved.
2. Expertise and Impartiality: The Water Disputes Tribunal comprises experts who possess specialized knowledge in water-related matters. This helps in ensuring a fair and informed decision-making process.
3. Legal Framework: The Parliament can enact laws that provide a clear legal framework for resolving water disputes. This helps in streamlining the entire process and ensuring consistency in the decisions.

Conclusion:
Article 262 of the Indian Constitution grants the Parliament the power to adjudicate inter-state water disputes. This provision plays a crucial role in resolving conflicts related to water distribution among states and ensures a fair and impartial decision-making process. By establishing a Water Disputes Tribunal, the Parliament ensures that these disputes are resolved in a centralized manner, with the involvement of experts in the field.