UPSC | Prelims GS | 2026

Karnataka invoked rebus sic stantibus while discussing the Cauvery allocation. In international law, this principle refers to:

  1. A fundamental change of circumstances potentially affecting continued application of a treaty
  2. An obligation to divide all river waters equally among riparian States
  3. Automatic supremacy of domestic law over an international treaty
  4. A prohibition on revisiting any treaty after ratification

Answer

Correct Answer

A fundamental change of circumstances potentially affecting continued application of a treaty

Explanation

Rebus sic stantibus concerns a fundamental change of circumstances that may justify revisiting treaty obligations under limited conditions. It is not a rule of equal water division or domestic-law supremacy. D states the opposite of its possible effect. The doctrine itself does not decide the Cauvery merits.

Topics: international law, international relations, rebus sic stantibus and river agreements, treaty interpretation