India Suspends Water Treaty with Pakistan: A Call for Ending Cross-Border Terrorism

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan will stay on hold until Islamabad addresses concerns about cross-border terrorism. This follows a recent ceasefire between the two countries after four days of conflict.

Jaishankar emphasized, “The treaty remains in abeyance until credible and irreversible action is taken against cross-border terrorism by Pakistan.”

The Indus Waters Treaty, established in 1960, has been a framework for water distribution between India and Pakistan. Recently, after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, India decided to suspend the treaty. In response, Pakistan has shown a willingness to discuss the concerns raised by India, according to sources.

Syed Ali Murtaza, Pakistan’s Water Resources Secretary, wrote to Indian official Debashree Mukherjee, acknowledging receipt of India’s notice regarding the treaty’s suspension. He expressed readiness to discuss specific Indian reservations but argued that there isn’t a legal exit clause in the treaty to justify India’s action.

Despite this response from Pakistan, Indian officials remain committed to their stance. The decision was influenced by ongoing terrorism targeting Jammu and Kashmir, which the Indian government considers a serious breach of the treaty. Mukherjee’s letter also pointed out that Pakistan’s refusal to negotiate has strained relations further.

Murtaza’s letter indicates a shift in Pakistan’s tone, although it still characterizes India’s actions as "unilateral and illegal." Indian officials counter that the principle of "change of circumstances," affected by repeated acts of terrorism and climate change, justifies a reevaluation of the treaty.

Historically, the Indus Waters Treaty has been a vital agreement between the two nations. It recognizes the distribution of river waters, categorizing them into eastern and western rivers. The Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab are critical for Pakistan’s agriculture, while India relies on the eastern rivers for its own needs.

Recent statistics show that approximately 80 million people in Pakistan depend on the Indus river system for their daily water supply. This highlights the urgency of addressing water-related concerns amid rising tensions.

Both countries must navigate this intricate relationship while recognizing the broader implications of water security in the region. As we watch this situation unfold, the need for dialogue remains crucial for sustainable peace and collaboration.

For more information on treaty implications, you can find the details here from the World Bank.

Source link

INDIA, PAKISTAN, INDUS WATER TREATY, INDIA SAYS WATER TREATY SUSPENDED UNTIL PAKISTAN ENDS 'CROSS-BORDER TERRORISM'