Pakistan’s political leadership has expressed deep concern over unilateral steps being taken by India with respect to the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), and termed them a serious threat to South Asia’s strategic stability besides a violation of international law, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Tuesday.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that Pakistan will defend the IWT come what may, and that it will not capitulate to the pressure being applied by India.
The minister has said that the treaty is linked to the survival of Pakistan.
Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar has said that India has got nothing by suspending the treaty, but only embarrassment. “Under the IWT, water is an inalienable right of Pakistan,” he has emphasized.
He has said that India has unilaterally violated the treaty. “Neither is there any moral ground for India’s actions nor any other justification.”
In his statement on X, Senator Dr Afnanullah Khan has said that Pakistan is committed to safeguarding its rights.
He has further said that a possible intervention by India in the upper River Chenab is a blatant violation of international law.
Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Barrister Danyal Chaudhry has said that instead of taking unilateral steps, it is incumbent upon India to implement the IWT.
PPP’s Dr Sharmila Faruqui has asked India to abide by agreements, saying it cannot bully Pakistan.
In a statement on X, she has said that the treaty guarantees peace in South Asia.
In his statement, Mir Ziaullah Langu Baloch has stressed the need for informing the world about Pakistan’s stance on the issue.
PPP’s Senator Palwasha Khan has said that Pakistan will never compromise on its share in water resources.
She has warned India against using water as a weapon against Pakistan. “We will continue to raise our voice for the protection of our rights at each and every world forum.”
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari has said that India must not remain under the impression that Pakistan will make any compromise on its rights. “The government will foil every Indian move to destroy Pakistan’s economy and agriculture,” she has vowed.
Barrister Aqeel Malik is of the view that using water as a weapon poses a threat to regional peace. “India must refrain from violating the treaty,” he has said, adding, “Because the treaty is a guarantor of Pakistan’s survival.”
Bilal Azhar Kayani has said that India cannot use water as a weapon.
PPP’s Naz Baloch has said that Pakistan is determined to protect its rights. “India will have to comply with the treaty,” she asserted.
WAPDA chairman has said that by launching projects on rivers such as Chenab, India is putting water security in the region at risk.
Reporter: Ahmad Mansoor