New Delhi: The Indian government has formally requested amendments to the Indus Water Treaty, sending a notice to Pakistan to initiate discussions on potential changes. According to reports, the notice highlights that maintaining the treaty in its current form is no longer feasible under the existing circumstances.
Senior officials from the Indian government revealed that the notice, dispatched on August 30, underscores the necessity for a comprehensive evaluation of the treaty’s various provisions. The Indus Water Treaty, which has been in effect since its signing on September 19, 1960, established a framework for the sharing of water from the Indus River system, with India allocated the waters of the Ravi, Sutlej, and Beas rivers, and Pakistan granted access to the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers.
The notice emphasizes changes in water usage and demographic shifts, asserting that India is moving toward cleaner energy sources, which necessitates a reassessment of the treaty. Additionally, Indian officials criticized Pakistan for allegedly exploiting India’s goodwill while citing ongoing security concerns related to terrorism.
The Indus Water Treaty was brokered with the assistance of the World Bank, with then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and President Ayub Khan signing the agreement in Karachi.
The treaty also established a permanent Indus Commission to facilitate communication and oversee its implementation, with annual meetings alternating between the two countries.
India’s recent move marks a significant development in the long-standing water-sharing agreement, as both nations navigate complex geopolitical challenges.
