Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has called on the international community to press India to immediately restore the Indus Water Treaty. In a recent address to the diplomatic corps in Islamabad, Dar expressed grave concerns over India’s manipulation of the Chenab River’s water flow, which he claims undermines the peace and stability of South Asia.

According to Radio Pakistan, Ishaq Dar emphasized that India released water without prior notification or data sharing with Pakistan, as mandated by the Indus Water Treaty. This action prompted Pakistan’s Indus Water Commissioner to seek clarification from his Indian counterpart. Dar argued that India’s actions exemplify the weaponization of water, an issue Pakistan has persistently highlighted to the international community.

Dar stressed that India’s manipulation of water during a critical agricultural period threatens the livelihoods, food, and economic security of Pakistani citizens. He urged India to address the concerns raised by Pakistan’s Indus Water Commissioner, cease unilateral manipulation of river flows, and adhere to the treaty’s obligations.

The Deputy Prime Minister criticized India for systematically undermining the treaty through the construction of hydropower projects like Kishanganga and Ratle, which allegedly violate technical specifications. He claimed that India’s capacity to store and control water endangers Pakistan’s security, economy, and the well-being of its people.

Ishaq Dar also highlighted India’s failure to share advance information, hydrological data, and joint oversight, as required by the treaty. He warned that this conduct could lead to humanitarian crises in Pakistan, contravening international human rights and humanitarian law, and obstructing progress on Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty and hunger.

Dar condemned India’s refusal to engage in the treaty’s dispute resolution mechanisms, such as the Court of Arbitration and neutral expert proceedings. He reiterated that the Indus Water Treaty is a binding legal instrument vital to South Asian peace and stability and urged the global community to counsel India to act responsibly.

Concluding his address, Dar noted that statements from Indian leadership indicate intentions to weaponize water against Pakistan. He affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution but insisted on safeguarding the water rights of its people.