Neutral Expert Backs India’s Stance Against Pakistan in Hydro Project Dispute

New Delhi: The Neutral Expert appointed by the World Bank has confirmed it is capable of settling disputes between India and Pakistan regarding two hydropower projects in Jammu and Kashmir. This decision has been welcomed by New Delhi.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that it has always maintained that the Neutral Expert is the only authority under the Indus Water Treaty to handle these disputes. The projects in question are the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric power plants.

The MEA emphasized that all seven questions presented to the Neutral Expert relate to his authority under the Treaty. Pakistan has not yet commented on this decision.

Back in 2022, amid growing disagreements about the Indus Water Treaty, the World Bank appointed a Neutral Expert and a chairman for arbitration regarding these projects. The 1960 treaty was created after extensive negotiations, allowing cooperation and information sharing about river usage between India and Pakistan. However, both countries have differing views on whether the designs of the Kishenganga and Ratle projects comply with the treaty.

Pakistan has sought a Court of Arbitration to address its concerns about the projects’ designs, while India prefers the Neutral Expert route. Recently, the Neutral Expert indicated he would be making decisions on the merits of the disputes.

With the Neutral Expert confirming his role, he will move forward to address the core issues of contention. The MEA stated that India remains committed to participating in this process, in line with the Treaty, which does not allow for multiple conflicting proceedings on the same issues. India has also indicated that it does not recognize the Court of Arbitration set up by Pakistan regarding this matter.

Both governments are still in communication about modifying and reviewing the Indus Water Treaty under a specific clause in the agreement.



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