Arbitration court backs Pakistan on Indus Waters Treaty

PARIS: The Court of Arbitration upheld Pakistan’s position on the Indus Waters Treaty, dealing a significant blow to India on diplomatic, legal, and moral grounds over the water-sharing agreement on Sunday.

According to the ruling, the Indus Waters Treaty is a binding international agreement backed by the World Bank, and India cannot suspend it unilaterally.

The court observed that Pakistan’s position is fully in line with international law and the correct legal interpretation of the treaty.

The decision further said that India cannot store water on the western rivers at will under any hydropower project.

The Court also directed India to provide Pakistan with operational data on water resources and share all technical and hydrological details of the Kishanganga and Ratle projects.

Rejecting India’s narrative of putting the treaty in abeyance, the court termed such claims illegal and against the spirit of international agreements.

The court also endorsed Pakistan’s stance on maintaining environmental flows, placing additional responsibilities on India.

Importantly, the tribunal dismissed India’s attempt to use water as a political tool.

Legal experts noted that India has repeatedly rejected international rulings due to its weak legal standing, while the court continued proceedings and issued key decisions despite India’s boycott.

Pakistan has welcomed the verdict, describing it as a victory for international law, justice, and fair arbitration.