Islamabad: India’s recent move to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, citing the Pahalgam false flag operation, has raised significant concerns regarding its intentions and compliance with international agreements. The unilateral decision has drawn sharp criticism and has been labeled a violation of international norms.

According to Radio Pakistan, India cannot terminate the treaty unilaterally, as this action contravenes Article 12(4) of the agreement. This article explicitly states that the treaty cannot be dissolved unless both India and Pakistan mutually agree in writing. The decision has sparked apprehension about India’s adherence to its international obligations, as the treaty, with the World Bank as its guarantor, is a pivotal agreement between the two nations.

India’s action has also raised questions about its role as an upper riparian country. It is argued that such a position does not grant India the authority to halt water flow to Pakistan, a lower riparian country. Experts have criticized India’s move as an act of water aggression, particularly as it follows accusations against Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack, which were made without substantial evidence or research.

The suspension of the treaty has broader implications, with sources indicating that India’s actions might cast doubt on other international agreements. Observers suggest that India might be attempting to divert attention from its internal challenges, which are reportedly escalating and becoming increasingly volatile.