In a landmark decision following the deadly April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, the Indian government has formally placed the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 in abeyance, marking a significant escalation in diplomatic and strategic responses toward Pakistan.
Sources confirmed Friday that an official notification has been issued, with Jal Shakti Ministry Secretary Debashree Mukherjee sending a formal letter to her Pakistani counterpart Syed Ali Murtaza, informing him that the treaty is now suspended “with immediate effect.”
The communication cited “fundamental changes in the circumstances” since the treaty’s inception, requiring a reassessment of its obligations under various articles and annexures. This step comes after a high-level security review conducted at the Ministry of Home Affairs on Thursday.
Diplomatic Fallout
The suspension of the treaty is part of a broader set of diplomatic measures announced by the Centre in the aftermath of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people were killed, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen.
Other measures include:
- Closure of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari.
- Suspension of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals, with a 40-hour deadline for their departure from India.
- Reduction of diplomatic presence, including the withdrawal of Defence, Navy, and Air Advisors from both High Commissions.
Background on the Treaty
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960 under then-President Eugene Black, is often hailed as one of the most durable and successful international agreements despite wars and hostilities between India and Pakistan. The treaty granted 80% of the Indus basin water to Pakistan (Western Rivers: Indus, Jhelum, Chenab), while India retained control over 20% (Eastern Rivers: Ravi, Beas, Sutlej), along with limited usage rights on the Western rivers.
The suspension signals a major shift in India’s diplomatic posture and could have far-reaching implications for regional water sharing, agriculture, and hydroelectric projects, especially in Pakistan, which is heavily dependent on the Indus system for its water supply.
Officials say the decision to halt the treaty was not taken lightly, but was deemed necessary given the evolving security situation and Pakistan’s continued inaction against cross-border terrorism.
The World Bank, a signatory to the treaty, is expected to issue a statement in the coming days.