Pakistan’s Position on Indus Waters Treaty Upheld by Arbitration Court

In a significant development, the Hague-based Court of Arbitration (CoA) has upheld Pakistan’s position on the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and reaffirmed its full operational effectiveness despite India’s objections. This landmark ruling was shared with the Senate Standing Committee on Water Resources during a recent meeting, where Syed Ali Murtaza, the Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, addressed key concerns about the treaty’s status. The IWT, a crucial agreement that governs the sharing of the Indus River system’s waters between Pakistan and India, has been a subject of contention in recent years. While India raised concerns and suggested that the treaty may have been suspended, the CoA has categorically confirmed that the agreement remains binding and fully operational. This ruling bolster Pakistan’s stance that the treaty, signed in 1960, continues to hold legal weight and that both nations are bound by its terms.

In his address to the Senate panel, Murtaza responded to India’s letter claiming that the treaty was on hold. He clarified that Pakistan maintains its commitment to the IWT, and it is fully effective as an international agreement. The Secretary also assured the committee that Pakistan would continue to uphold the treaty, despite any challenges raised by the neighboring country. Pakistan’s position reflects its firm belief in the treaty’s critical role in ensuring equitable water distribution and regional stability.

One of the primary issues raised during the meeting was the current gap in leadership at the Indus Water Commission, the body responsible for implementing the treaty. The position of Indus Water Commissioner has been vacant for some time, which raised concerns about the effective management of water-sharing issues. To address this gap, Syed Ali Murtaza announced that Mehar Ali Shah, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Water Resources, would assume the role of Acting Indus Water Commissioner. Shah’s appointment aims to ensure that the Commission continues to function smoothly and that Pakistan’s interests are effectively represented in all matters related to the IWT.

The Indus Waters Treaty has long been a cornerstone of water-sharing relations between Pakistan and India, but recent tensions over water usage and dam construction have sparked renewed debate. Pakistan has consistently called for the strict implementation of the treaty, urging India to adhere to its terms. The ruling by the Arbitration Court serves as a crucial affirmation of Pakistan’s position on the treaty and highlights the importance of international arbitration in resolving water disputes.

With Mehar Ali Shah’s appointment as Acting Commissioner, Pakistan is taking proactive steps to ensure that the Indus Water Commission remains functional and that the country’s water resources are protected. The development underscores the significance of the Indus Waters Treaty in maintaining peaceful and productive relations between the two neighboring nations, while safeguarding Pakistan’s vital water supplies.