India Responds After Kashmir Attack, Questions Water Treaty

New Delhi India has responded to a recent attack in Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, by signaling a potential shift in its relationship with Pakistan regarding the Indus Waters Treaty. The External Affairs Ministry announced it would be re-evaluating its commitment to the treaty, citing concerns arising from the attack.

The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, is a water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan, overseeing the allocation of water from the Indus River and its tributaries. It has been a cornerstone of relations between the two countries for decades, surviving multiple conflicts.

Sources within the Indian government suggest that the attack, which targeted a security installation in Kashmir, has prompted a reassessment of all existing agreements with Pakistan. Officials have stated that the treaty cannot be viewed in isolation from the current security environment. The move raises concerns about the potential impact on water resources and agricultural practices in both countries, particularly in Pakistan, which relies heavily on the Indus River basin. The exact implications of India's re-evaluation remain unclear, but experts suggest that it could involve renegotiating specific provisions of the treaty or even withdrawing from the agreement altogether. This development adds another layer of complexity to the already strained relationship between India and Pakistan.