In a historic and bold diplomatic move, India has suspended the decades-old Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 Indian citizens.
escalating tensions between the two nations. This diplomatic move puts water security at the forefront of geopolitical discussions in South Asia.
Jal Shakti Ministry Secretary Debashree Mukherjee on Thursday formally notified Pakistan’s Ministry of Water Resources about India's decision to place the treaty "in abeyance" with immediate effect. This marks a significant shift in India's foreign policy, linking future cooperation to Pakistan’s actions in curbing cross-border terrorism.
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, had guaranteed Pakistan access to the western rivers. With the suspension now in place, India can freeze project clearances, halt data sharing, suspend commission meetings, and enhance its usage of river waters that previously flowed into Pakistan unrestricted. While not a full withdrawal yet, this move is a clear warning that India will no longer honor bilateral agreements while under persistent terror threats.
In response, Pakistan sharply criticized India's action, calling it an act of "water warfare" and an illegal violation of international law. Following an emergency meeting of its top security officials, Pakistan announced retaliatory measures — including suspending the 1972 Simla Agreement and closing its airspace to Indian-owned or operated airlines.
Pakistan’s government, in an official statement, asserted:
"The treaty is a binding international agreement brokered by the World Bank and contains no provision for unilateral suspension. Water is a vital national interest of Pakistan, a lifeline for its 240 million people, and its availability will be safeguarded at all costs."
It further warned that any attempt to stop or divert water flows would be treated as an "act of war" and would invite a full-force response.
The Simla Agreement, signed after the 1971 Indo-Pak war, was intended to ensure peaceful bilateral dispute resolution. Its suspension now deepens the diplomatic chasm between the two nations.
Meanwhile, Pakistan also announced it will legally challenge India's suspension of the treaty, emphasizing the involvement of international bodies like the World Bank.
This escalation marks a tense moment in South Asia’s geopolitical landscape, with water — a lifeline for millions — becoming a new flashpoint between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
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