Recently, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha hailed the decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to terminate the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan. Soon after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, that left 26 civilians dead, India made it clear that blood and water cannot flow together, terror and talks cannot go together and terror and trade cannot happen together. The first step which was taken by India was the termination of ‘Indus Water Treaty’. It was befitting response to Pakistan and the terrorists sponsored by it.
LG Sinha termed it as a historic step that marked a new beginning, and reiterated Government of India’s commitment to utilize India’s water exclusively for the benefit of its citizens. The IWT, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, was a rare symbol of cooperation between India and Pakistan. It allocated the three eastern rivers—Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—to India, and the three western rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab—to Pakistan, though India retained limited rights over the western rivers. Despite multiple wars, acts of aggression, and relentless terrorism emanating from across the border, India had continued to honor the treaty for over six decades. The Pahalgam attack proved to be a tipping point. In clear and unequivocal terms, PM Modi took a tough stand and this shift in posture led to termination of the IWT. The move has sent a strong message—not only to Pakistan but also to the international community—that India will no longer accept duplicity. By terminating the IWT, India is exercising its sovereign right to utilize its water resources, especially the waters of rivers that originate within its territory. This step is also a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens, particularly in water-stressed regions like Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Beyond its symbolic significance, the termination of the treaty opens doors for greater water security, irrigation potential, and hydroelectric generation within India. It also gives the government space to rework policies that ensure equitable and efficient water distribution across states, while fostering self-reliance and resilience in critical sectors like agriculture and energy. The world needs to respect India’s decision, grounded in national interest and in response to persistent acts of cross-border terror. It is not a reactionary gesture, but a considered policy shift that prioritizes peace through strength, not passivity. The time has come for Pakistan to introspect—whether it wants water-sharing treaties or terror havens; peace or provocation. India has made its choice. And as LG Manoj Sinha rightly pointed out, this is the beginning of a new chapter—one where India asserts, not appeases. |
