No-Go Theorem for Nonstandard Explanations of the τ→K_{S}πν_{τ} CP Asymmetry

The CP asymmetry in τ→K_{S}πν_{τ}, as measured by the BABAR collaboration, differs from the standard model prediction by 2.8σ. Most nonstandard interactions do not allow for the required strong phase needed to produce a nonvanishing CP asymmetry, leaving only new tensor interactions as a possible mechanism. We demonstrate that, contrary to previous assumptions in the literature, the crucial interference between vector and tensor phases is suppressed by at least 2 orders of magnitude due to Watson's final-state-interaction theorem. Furthermore, we find that the strength of the relevant CP-violating tensor interaction is strongly constrained by bounds from the neutron electric dipole moment and D-D[over ¯] mixing. These observations together imply that it is extremely difficult to explain the current τ→K_{S}πν_{τ} measurement in terms of physics beyond the standard model originating in the ultraviolet.