Indus Water Treaty Put on Hold: challenges and consequences

Barbaric Terror Attack in Pahalgam

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On the 22nd of this month, in a heinous act of violence, terrorists belonging to Pakistan-backed TRF (The Resistance Front) indiscriminately opened fire on innocent Indian tourists at the Baisaran rally in Pahalgam, Kashmir, killing 26 civilians. India reacted strongly to this barbaric incident, with nationwide protests and outrage erupting in response.

India Halts Indus Water Treaty

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, the Indian government has decided to suspend the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), a water-sharing agreement by the World Bank and signed over 60 years ago. The decision has sent shockwaves through Pakistan, shaking its political and diplomatic foundations. Even though India and Pakistan have engaged in wars since 1960, India never violated the IWT, handling the matter with great restraint and responsibility. However, Pakistan's continued hostility and support for terrorism have now compelled India to reconsider its generosity.

The Indus Waters Treaty: A Background

Following the Partition in 1947, the Indus river system was divided between India and Pakistan. Headworks of the irrigation system were located in India, while the canals lay in Pakistan. After the Standstill Agreement expired in 1948, an Inter-Dominion Agreement was signed on May 4, 1948.