IN a disturbing escalation of tensions, New Delhi has choked the flow of the Chenab River into Pakistan—a blatant provocation and a serious violation of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
According to reports, since Sunday morning, Pakistan has received nearly 90% less water than usual from the Chenab River.
This abrupt reduction is already causing alarm, with Pakistan’s Indus River System Authority warning of a possible 20% cut to farm water supplies if the situation persists.
Instead of accepting Pakistan’s offer of independent investigation into Pahalgam incident, India is upping the ante through unilateral and hostile actions, exposing the narrow-mindedness of its leadership and its long-standing enmity towards Pakistan.
This act of water aggression directly threatens the livelihood of millions of Pakistani farmers and the country’s agricultural economy.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has rightly called out India’s actions, stating unequivocally that the weaponization of the Indus Waters Treaty is a red line for the people of Pakistan.
During his meeting with Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the Prime Minister expressed Pakistan’s deep concern over India’s escalating provocations and their dangerous implications for South Asian peace.
It is abundantly clear: we will not give up rightful share of water under the Indus Waters Treaty.
This treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, has long been a cornerstone of stability in the region.
India’s recent behaviour undermines the very foundation of this internationally guaranteed agreement.
In this situation, the World Bank must not remain a silent observer.
It is imperative that the Bank immediately investigates this violation and ensures India adheres to the treaty’s provisions.
Moreover, the international community must take note of India’s provocative stance and pressure it to cease any further violations.
Water must never be used as a weapon—especially between nuclear-armed neighbours.
Pakistan cannot and will not remain silent.
The defence of its rights under the Indus Waters Treaty is not just a matter of policy but of national survival and sovereignty.
If India continues down this perilous path, the responsibility for regional destabilization will rest squarely on its shoulders.
The world must act—before it is too late.
