Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar stated on Monday that Pakistan's right to water under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) is its "inalienable right" and a lifeline that the country will protect. In a post on X, Tarar asserted that India's unilateral attempt to hold the IWT in abeyance had "no legal or moral standing," describing the move as a failed attempt that had caused India "nothing but embarrassment."
Violation of UN Principle
Tarar further said the action was a clear violation of the "One Water-One Vision" principle endorsed by the United Nations. He emphasized that Pakistan remains committed to the treaty and will continue to safeguard its water rights through all available forums.
Background of the Indus Waters Treaty
The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan with the World Bank as a signatory, allocates the waters of the Indus River system. Under the treaty, Pakistan has rights over the waters of the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers, while India controls the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers. The treaty has survived multiple conflicts and is considered a key pillar of stability in the region.
India's Recent Stance
Earlier this month, India issued a notice to Pakistan seeking a review and modification of the treaty, citing changes in circumstances. India's notice argued that the treaty's dispute resolution mechanisms were outdated and that Pakistan's objections to Indian hydroelectric projects were hindering development. Pakistan rejected the notice, calling it a violation of the treaty's provisions.
According to diplomatic sources, Pakistan has raised the issue at international forums, including the United Nations, highlighting India's actions as a threat to regional peace and water security. The minister's remarks come amid heightened tensions between the two countries over water sharing and cross-border terrorism.
Domestic Reaction
Political leaders and water experts in Pakistan have condemned India's attempt to suspend the treaty. Former ambassador to the UN, Maleeha Lodhi, called the move "a dangerous precedent" that could destabilize the region. Water resource expert Dr. Ahmad Rafay Alam stated that the treaty has served as a model for transboundary water management and any unilateral changes could lead to conflict.
Meanwhile, the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) arrested nine suspects and seized over 55 kg of drugs in nationwide operations, according to a separate official statement. The operations were conducted in various cities, including Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar, as part of ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking.
