'India's position on Indus Waters Treaty consistent': MEA responds to Pakistan's 'warnings'

MEA reiterates India's stand on Indus Waters Treaty amid fresh remarks from Pakistan

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday reaffirmed that India's position on the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) remains "consistent," responding to Pakistan's recent warnings over the implementation of the landmark water-sharing agreement between the two countries.

Addressing a media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India's approach to the treaty has not changed and continues to reflect the government's stated position. His remarks came after Pakistan raised concerns over New Delhi's handling of the agreement and reportedly cautioned against any unilateral changes.

"The Government of India's position on the Indus Waters Treaty has been consistent," Jaiswal said, reiterating that India's actions are guided by its long-standing policy and national interests.

The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960 with the mediation of the World Bank, governs the sharing of waters from the Indus river system between India and Pakistan. Despite multiple wars and periods of heightened diplomatic tensions, the treaty has remained in force for more than six decades.

Relations between the two neighbours have become increasingly strained in recent years, with water-sharing emerging as one of several contentious bilateral issues alongside cross-border terrorism, trade and diplomatic engagement.

India has repeatedly argued that changing circumstances, including security concerns and evolving development requirements, warrant a reassessment of certain aspects of the treaty's implementation. Pakistan, meanwhile, has maintained that the agreement should continue to be implemented in its original spirit and has expressed concern over India's recent actions relating to water infrastructure projects.

The latest exchange comes against the backdrop of broader tensions between the two countries following recent security developments. While diplomatic channels remain limited, both sides continue to communicate on issues related to the treaty through the mechanisms established under the agreement.

Experts note that the Indus Waters Treaty provides for dispute resolution through a graded mechanism involving bilateral discussions, a Neutral Expert and, in certain cases, a Court of Arbitration. Differences over the interpretation of specific provisions have previously been taken through these channels.

India has maintained that it remains committed to acting in accordance with its legal rights under the treaty while pursuing projects permitted under its provisions. Pakistan has consistently called for adherence to the agreement and urged dialogue to resolve outstanding issues.

The MEA's latest remarks signal that New Delhi is unlikely to alter its publicly stated position despite Pakistan's recent warnings, with the future of the treaty expected to remain an important aspect of India-Pakistan relations.