India's Bold Move: Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty in Response to Terrorism

India Takes a Stand Against Pakistan
In a significant response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, India has taken a decisive action against Pakistan by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) established in 1960. This suspension means that Pakistan will no longer have authority over the Indus River's flow through Indian territory, causing alarm among Pakistani officials. In an attempt to reverse this decision, Pakistan's Water Resources Ministry reached out to India's Jal Shakti Ministry, requesting a reconsideration, but India firmly declined.
PM Modi's Strong Message
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation, delivering a stern warning to Pakistan: "Blood and water cannot flow together." He asserted that discussions, trade, and water sharing would not resume until Pakistan ceases its support for terrorism. This statement marks a shift in India's foreign policy towards a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism.
Escalation of Tensions Following Operation Sindoor
On May 7, India executed Operation Sindoor, targeting and destroying nine terrorist hideouts located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). India has made it clear that the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty will remain in effect until Pakistan completely stops its support for cross-border terrorism.
Understanding the Indus Waters Treaty
The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960 with the World Bank's mediation, allocated 30% of the Indus River's waters to India and 70% to Pakistan. For decades, India adhered to this treaty out of humanitarian considerations. However, the current geopolitical climate has prompted a reevaluation of this agreement.