India Rejects International Court’s Authority Over Indus Waters Treaty
On August 14, 2025, India officially announced that it does not recognize the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s (PCA) authority to adjudicate disputes arising from the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)—a landmark water-sharing agreement signed between India and Pakistan in 1960. The move has drawn sharp attention from regional and international observers, given the treaty’s role as a cornerstone of South Asian water cooperation for over six decades.
Background of the Indus Waters Treaty
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, allocates the use of six rivers between India and Pakistan. The three western rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab—were reserved for Pakistan, while the three eastern rivers—Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—were assigned to India.
Over the years, disputes have emerged over infrastructure projects, dam constructions, and water flow management, with both countries seeking legal or diplomatic avenues for resolution.
The Current Dispute
The latest disagreement stems from Pakistan’s concerns over Indian hydroelectric projects on western rivers. Islamabad claims these projects may violate the treaty’s provisions by altering downstream water flows.
In response, Pakistan approached the Permanent Court of Arbitration seeking intervention. However, India maintains that such disputes must be resolved bilaterally or through neutral expert review, not through the PCA, arguing that the court lacks jurisdiction.
India’s Position
According to statements from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs:
-
The PCA’s current proceedings are “legally untenable” under the treaty’s framework.
-
India insists that only the dispute resolution mechanisms outlined in the treaty are valid, which do not grant binding authority to the PCA without mutual consent.
-
New Delhi argues that Pakistan’s recourse to the court undermines the spirit of bilateral engagement.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan has expressed deep concern over India’s stance, warning that rejecting international arbitration could weaken the treaty’s dispute resolution process. Officials in Islamabad have called for compliance with international legal obligations and stressed the need for fair adjudication to ensure water security for millions of people.
Regional & Global Implications
-
Bilateral Relations: This development comes amid already heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, raising fears of further diplomatic strain.
-
Water Security Risks: With climate change and rising demand placing additional pressure on water resources, the stability of the Indus Basin remains critical.
-
International Mediation: The dispute tests the role of international institutions like the World Bank in upholding long-standing agreements.
0 Comments