By Farhan Khan (PID, Peshawar)
The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960 between Pakistan and India, was designed to resolve water-sharing disputes between the two nations in a fair and structured manner. Brokered by the World Bank, the agreement was formally endorsed by both countries. Its primary objective was to ensure a clear and equitable distribution of river waters to prevent future conflicts.
Under the terms of the treaty, the six major rivers of the Indus basin were divided between the two sides. The three western rivers—Indus River, Jhelum River, and Chenab River—were allocated to Pakistan, while the three eastern rivers—Ravi River, Beas River, and Sutlej River—were assigned to India. This division reflected Pakistan’s heavy reliance on the western rivers for its agricultural and economic stability.
For Pakistan, these rivers are nothing short of lifelines. A vast portion of the country’s agricultural land depends on their waters, sustaining millions of livelihoods. Any disruption in their flow would have immediate and far-reaching consequences for food production, economic stability, and daily life. For this reason, Pakistan considers the issue not merely economic, but one of national security and survival.
Recent statements from India expressing a desire to revoke the treaty have raised serious concerns. Such a move would not only be surprising but also contrary to established principles of international law. The Indus Waters Treaty is a formal international agreement, underwritten by a global financial institution, and cannot be unilaterally terminated by either party.
A fundamental principle of international agreements is that once signed, they cannot be dissolved without mutual consent. Any unilateral attempt to withdraw would be viewed as a violation of international legal and diplomatic norms.
Pakistan’s position on the matter remains firm and consistent. The country has upheld the treaty in both stable and challenging times, always opting for legal and diplomatic channels. It maintains that using water as a tool of political pressure is both irresponsible and potentially dangerous for regional peace.
Pakistan reserves the right to raise the issue at international forums and, if necessary, to pursue all legal and diplomatic avenues to safeguard its water rights. Its demand is straightforward: full and sincere compliance with the treaty by both parties.
It is evident that the Indus Waters Treaty is not merely a water-sharing arrangement but also a symbol of cooperation, responsibility, and peace in South Asia. Pakistan remains committed to defending its rightful share of water under the treaty to protect its people, agriculture, and future.
