In a sharp escalation of diplomatic tensions with Pakistan, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty after the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The move follows a series of strong reactions by New Delhi after the attack that killed 26 civilians the worst such attack in India in almost two decades.
The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, has been a symbol of cooperation between India and Pakistan for decades, even during times of war and hostility. The treaty regulates the sharing of water from the Indus River and its tributaries, which run through both nations. India’s suspension of the treaty represents a dramatic change in its diplomatic strategy, one that is a reflection of growing frustrations over repeated terror attacks traced back to Pakistani soil.
India Answers Cross-Border Terror with Tough Steps
The move to suspend the water-sharing treaty is part of a larger game plan to mark the beginning of zero tolerance for terrorism across borders. Besides suspending the treaty, India has also expelled Pakistani military advisers, closed principal border checkpoints, and withdrawn special visa concessions to Pakistani nationals. These moves reflect the increased seriousness with which India is treating threats to national security coming from the other side.
Pahalgam Attack Triggers National Anger
Tensions have been continuously mounting since the Pahalgam attack, which was carried out on a popular tourist destination in Jammu & Kashmir. The attack resulted not only in a heavy toll of innocent lives but also resulted in public outrage nationwide. Due to this, India’s leadership has been in a state of extreme pressure to react firmly.
Water Becomes a Diplomatic Weapon
Given that water is a sensitive and strategic resource for both countries, suspension of the treaty brings new nuances into an already explosive regional dynamics. It also makes a resounding statement to the world at large about India’s willingness to use diplomatic and strategic means to protect its national interests.
Though no formal discussion has been undertaken to renegotiate the treaty terms, the suspension de facto brings cooperative processes to a standstill. The action is likely to attract international interest, particularly that of nations and organizations who traditionally have pushed for Indus basin stability.
