India Says Indus Water Treaty Suspended Until Pakistan Stops Terrorism
India has firmly stated that the Indus Waters Treaty remains suspended until Pakistan unequivocally ends its backing of cross-border terrorism. The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated this stance, emphasizing that the treaty's abeyance is a direct response to Pakistan's continued sponsorship of such activities.
The treaty, signed in 1960 and brokered by the World Bank, allocates the waters of the Indus River system between the two countries. India's position follows a previous declaration that 'blood and water can't flow together' after a significant attack attributed to Pakistan-based militants. India has long accused Pakistan of using terrorism as an instrument of state policy, a charge Islamabad denies.
Pakistan, which heavily relies on Indus waters for agriculture, has called for dialogue to resolve the dispute. However, New Delhi has made it clear that no talks can proceed without Pakistan taking credible action against terror groups. The suspension of the treaty, first announced in 2023, has raised concerns about regional water security and escalated tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
Analysts note that the Indus Waters Treaty is considered one of the most successful water-sharing agreements in history, having survived three wars. The current impasse threatens its integrity, with India exploring options to increase hydroelectric projects on western rivers, which could reduce flows to Pakistan.
