India Suspends Indus Water Treaty Amid Rising Tensions with Pakistan
New Delhi, May 5 (ANI): The Indian government has officially suspended the Indus Water Treaty, a landmark agreement signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 tourists on April 22. The move is part of a broader set of measures aimed at pressuring Pakistan over its alleged support for cross-border terrorism.
Arshad Madani Questions Feasibility of Water Blockade
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind President Arshad Madani has raised concerns over the practicality of stopping water flow to Pakistan. He emphasized that rivers have been flowing for thousands of years and questioned where the diverted water would go. Madani urged for a rule of love, not hatred, stating that the current political climate is not suitable for the country.
India’s Diplomatic and Economic Actions Against Pakistan
In addition to suspending the treaty, India has taken several diplomatic and economic measures:
- Expulsion of Pakistani officials: Defence, Military, Naval, and Air Advisors in the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared persona non grata and ordered to leave India within a week.
- Media and digital restrictions: The Indian government has banned 15 Pakistani YouTube channels and suspended social media accounts of prominent Pakistani celebrities and politicians.
- Trade and travel bans: India has shut its airspace for Pakistani flights, and Pakistani ships are no longer allowed to enter Indian seaports.
Public Calls for Strong Action
Kanbai Shivji Hirani, a woman who helped rebuild the Indian Air Force airstrip in Bhuj during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, has called for firm action against Pakistan. She urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to stop water and food supply to Pakistan, arguing that such measures would force Pakistan to reconsider its actions.
Pakistan’s Response and International Reactions
Pakistan has strongly condemned the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, calling it an act of war. Pakistani leaders have warned of retaliatory measures, including targeting any Indian-built structures on the Indus River. Meanwhile, international observers are closely monitoring the situation, as the treaty’s suspension could have far-reaching consequences for regional stability.
India’s Military Preparedness
The Indian government has granted the armed forces complete operational freedom to determine the mode, targets, and timing of its response to the Pahalgam attack. Officials have vowed that terrorists responsible for the attack and their conspirators will face severe punishment.
As tensions continue to escalate, both nations remain on high alert, with diplomatic efforts underway to prevent further conflict.