ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Water Resources, led by Senator Shahadat Awan, convened at Parliament House to address concerns over recent developments concerning the Indus Waters Treaty. The meeting focused on India’s alleged violations of the treaty, highlighting the potential risks to Pakistan’s water security.

Pakistan’s Commissioner for Indus Waters, Syed Muhammad Mehar Ali Shah, emphasized that the treaty, a bilateral agreement between Pakistan and India, remains in effect and is legally binding on both nations. He noted that India’s recent attempts to restrict water flow from western rivers constitute a violation of the treaty’s terms. The committee unanimously condemned India’s unilateral actions, describing them as a direct threat to Pakistan’s water security and agricultural productivity, affecting 250 million citizens.

The committee stressed that the treaty cannot be suspended or terminated unilaterally, as per Clause 4 of Article XII of the treaty and the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties 1969. The World Bank President has also affirmed that the treaty remains in force, obligating both nations to adhere to its provisions.

Senator Awan and committee members expressed concern over India’s actions against the Neelum Jehlum Project, labeling them as “water warfare and aggression” that destabilizes regional peace. The committee urged the international community to respond to what it sees as India’s aggression and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to defending its water rights through legal and political avenues.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s dedication to peaceful resolutions with India, while maintaining that water security is non-negotiable. The committee emphasized that any threat to water resources is a threat to Pakistan’s existence and expressed confidence in the country’s armed forces to defend its rights.

The session was attended by several key figures, including Senators Faisal Saleem Rahman, Saadia Abbasi, Mohammad Humayun Mohmand, and others, alongside Federal Minister for Water Resources Muhammad Mueen Watto.