🎯Approach
➡️ Introduction: Provide a brief overview of the Indus Waters Treaty.
➡️ Body: Explain the reasons behind the proposed modifications, including the potential benefits of such changes. Discuss the implications for India-Pakistan relations.
➡️ Conclusion: Propose a balanced approach moving forward, linking it to the broader interests of both nations.
The Indus Waters Treaty, established in 1960 with mediation by the World Bank, is a water-sharing accord between India and Pakistan. It allocates access to the Indus River and its tributaries, which begin in India and flow through both countries. According to the agreement, India oversees the eastern rivers (Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi), while Pakistan manages the western rivers (Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum).
A permanent Indus Waters Commission has been set up to resolve any potential disputes. India is entitled to manage the runoff from hydropower plants on the western rivers while retaining full control over the eastern rivers.
Discrepancies Leading to Treaty Amendments
✅ Lack of Cooperation: Pakistan has been uncooperative in implementing the treaty and has objected to the construction of hydropower projects on the Indian side. The treaty includes a structured mechanism for resolving disputes, but Pakistan’s disregard for this process has resulted in the use of two concurrent dispute resolution mechanisms.
✅ Strategic Tensions: Pakistan’s strategy of using state-sponsored terrorism, exemplified by the Uri attack shortly after disputes over the Kishanganga and Rale projects, has intensified calls for India to leverage water resources strategically.
✅ Criticism of India: India faces criticism for being a responsible upper riparian state, even as Pakistan has not made concessions on contentious issues, including Kashmir.
The proposed changes will offer several advantages, including meeting India’s energy and water requirements for development and improving flood mitigation efforts.
Implications for India-Pakistan Relations
✅ Enforcement of Amendments: If both governments accept the proposed amendments, they can be enforced under Article XII (3) of the treaty. Should Pakistan not respond within 90 days, Article XII (4) allows for the termination of the treaty through ratification by both parties.
✅ Potential Restrictions: India might consider imposing restrictions related to terrorism and the Kashmir issue. However, China, a close ally of Pakistan, may adopt a more stringent position on the Brahmaputra River, which is already under consideration.
✅ Strain on Relations: The amendments could also strain relations by obstructing dialogue channels with the assistance of Indus commissioners and impartial experts.
The cancellation of the agreement could lead to increased competition for developing hydroelectric projects in the region, potentially resulting in a greater Chinese influence in the Pakistani economy.
In general, there should be extensive discussions and the establishment of a high-level task force to propose specific amendments to the treaty, ensuring that future water disputes are avoided.
