LAHORE: In response to India's move to unilaterally suspend the Indus Water Treaty, Pakistan has decided to form a dedicated think tank comprising experts from the Foreign Ministry, Ministry of Water Resources, and the Indus Water Commission, sources revealed on Saturday.
According to sources within the Indus Water Commission, the newly formed think tank will evaluate the legal, technical, and diplomatic implications of India’s decision and submit its recommendations to the federal cabinet. Based on this expert opinion, the Prime Minister and cabinet members will decide Pakistan’s future strategy regarding the issue.
Officials said Pakistan holds a stronger legal and diplomatic position compared to India on the matter. “India has taken a unilateral step that disregards the established framework of the Indus Water Treaty,” a source stated.
Sources further indicated that Pakistan is seriously considering escalating the matter to the World Bank, which acts as a mediator under the 1960 treaty. “A report from legal experts is being reviewed, and a formal approach to the World Bank could be announced soon,” a source added.
Pakistan is also exploring the option of raising the issue at the United Nations and other international diplomatic forums. "Various diplomatic steps are being considered to counter India’s move," the source said.
Officials emphasized that Pakistan has never violated the Indus Water Treaty, maintaining its commitment to the agreement even amid political tensions. “Pakistan has previously approached the World Bank for mediation over disputes related to the Kishanganga, Baglihar, and Ratle dams,” the source noted.
The Indus Water Treaty, signed in 1960 with World Bank facilitation, has long been a cornerstone of water-sharing between the two countries. India’s latest action could pose a serious challenge to the future of the historic agreement.
