A Treaty That Stands Strong
The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan with World Bank support, is a global model for water-sharing agreements. It has endured wars, tensions, and mistrust for over six decades. However, Pakistan’s recent push for an Arbitration Court challenges this historic pact. India strongly opposes this move, calling it illegal and against the Treaty’s rules.
What Is the Indus Waters Treaty?
A Historic Agreement
- Signed on September 19, 1960, between India and Pakistan.
- Gives Pakistan control over western rivers: Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab.
- Gives India control over eastern rivers: Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej.
- Sets clear rules for resolving disputes through:
- Talks between the two nations.
- A Technical Expert for technical issues.
- An Arbitration Court for legal disputes, if needed.
Why It Matters
- Survived three wars, proving its strength.
- A rare example of cooperation over shared rivers.
- Guides both nations on fair water use and project planning.
Why the Dispute?
Pakistan objects to two Indian projects:
- Kishenganga Hydroelectric Project in Jammu & Kashmir (now running).
- Ratle Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab River.
Pakistan claims these projects harm water flow and break Treaty rules on dam design and storage.
India’s Stand
India insists:
- Both projects follow Treaty guidelines.
- All plans were shared openly with Pakistan.
- These are technical issues, best handled by a Technical Expert, not an international court.
India’s Opposition to the Arbitration Court
In 2022, Pakistan approached an Arbitration Court in The Hague without India’s consent. India rejects this court, stating:
- It is illegal and breaks Treaty rules against parallel processes.
- A Technical Expert is already addressing the dispute, making the court unnecessary.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs says:
“India will not accept parallel proceedings that violate the Treaty’s clear rules.”
This move by Pakistan, India argues, weakens trust in international agreements.
Trust in the Technical Expert
A Technical Expert, appointed under Treaty rules, is reviewing Pakistan’s concerns. The Expert has authority over all seven issues raised. India is fully cooperating by:
- Joining all meetings.
- Sharing project designs and water flow data.
- Focusing on facts and technical details, not legal drama.
India’s Fair and Firm Approach
India remains committed to the Treaty and its processes. It has said:
“We engage sincerely with the Technical Expert and expect all parties to respect the Treaty.”
India is open to updating the Treaty through mutual agreement, as allowed under Article XII (3). However, it will not accept one-sided legal moves.
Why This Matters Globally
This dispute goes beyond India and Pakistan:
- It tests how nations respect international treaties.
- It raises concerns about using legal forums for political goals.
- It affects how countries manage shared rivers worldwide.
India’s Clear Message
India’s response is diplomatic, rational, and rooted in fairness. By rejecting the illegal Arbitration Court and supporting the Technical Expert, India upholds the Treaty’s integrity.
India’s stance:
“We honor our agreements. We follow the process for disputes. We stand against parallel systems that break trust.”
India stands tall, protecting its rights while championing global cooperation. The world is watching.