In a recent statement, Home Minister Amit Shah declared that India will never restore the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan. Shah asserted that the water currently flowing to Pakistan will be diverted for internal use, marking a significant shift in India's stance on the long-standing agreement. This declaration follows India's decision to put the treaty in "abeyance" after a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, where 26 civilians were killed. India has blamed Pakistan for the attack, a charge Islamabad denies.
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, governs the sharing of water from the Indus River system between India and Pakistan. Under the treaty, Pakistan has been guaranteed access to approximately 80% of the water from the three rivers originating in India. These rivers are crucial for Pakistan's agricultural sector, making the treaty a vital lifeline for the country's food security.
Shah's comments have sparked strong reactions from Pakistan. The Foreign Office in Islamabad condemned the statement as a "brazen disregard for the sanctity of international agreements," asserting that the IWT is an international treaty with no provision for unilateral action. Pakistan argues that India's decision to hold the treaty in abeyance constitutes a clear violation of international law and the treaty's provisions, setting a "reckless and dangerous precedent" that undermines the credibility of international agreements. The Foreign Office also accused India of "weaponizing water for political ends," calling on New Delhi to immediately rescind its unilateral position and resume full implementation of the treaty. Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to the IWT and vowed to take all necessary measures to protect its legitimate rights under the agreement.
According to Shah, the decision to not restore the treaty stems from Pakistan's alleged violation of the agreement's terms. He stated that the treaty was established for peace and progress between the two countries, and since that condition has been violated, there is nothing left to protect. Shah further elaborated on India's plans to construct a canal to divert water to Rajasthan, effectively cutting off the water supply that Pakistan has been "unjustifiably" receiving.
This is not the first time tensions have risen over the Indus Waters Treaty. Over the years, disputes have emerged regarding the interpretation and implementation of the treaty's provisions, particularly concerning hydroelectric projects. However, the current situation marks a significant escalation, with India signaling a complete withdrawal from the agreement.
The implications of this decision are far-reaching. For Pakistan, the potential loss of water could have severe consequences for its agricultural economy and overall water security. Experts suggest that reduced water flow could lead to decreased crop yields, increased water scarcity, and heightened social and political instability. For India, the decision could be seen as a bold move to assert its water rights and address its own growing water needs. However, it also risks damaging its international reputation and escalating tensions with Pakistan.
The future of the Indus Waters Treaty and its impact on the relationship between India and Pakistan remain uncertain. With both countries taking firm stances, the path forward appears fraught with challenges. Whether diplomatic solutions can be found to address the concerns of both sides remains to be seen, but the stakes are undeniably high for the water security and regional stability.
