New Delhi, May 6 (IANS): As tensions with Pakistan escalate over the Indus Water Treaty, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a definitive stance regarding India’s water resources, asserting their use will prioritize national interests. Speaking at the ‘India@2047 Summit’ hosted by a news channel, Modi highlighted the historical inequities of the treaty, noting that India’s rightful water has flowed into Pakistan for far too long. "Bharat ke haq ka paani, Bharat ke haq mein bahega" (water that rightfully belongs to India will now serve the country’s needs), he declared, marking a pivotal shift in India’s approach to managing its water resources.
Modi acknowledged that rivers have historically been sources of conflict but reaffirmed India’s commitment to better management through initiatives aimed at interlinking them. While media discussions on water issues abound, he emphasized the existing imbalance, stating that India has been unfairly ceding its rightful share of water. Moving forward, he pledged to protect India’s water resources and deploy them for the country’s benefit.
This assertive policy comes in the wake of a tragic attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, primarily tourists. In response, India has implemented a series of countermeasures against Pakistan, including the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT). Following a cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Modi, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced a downgrading of diplomatic relations with Pakistan and indicated that the treaty would be suspended until substantial action is taken to curb cross-border terrorism.
As part of its strategic response, India has also partially restricted water flow to Pakistan by shutting off the Baglihar and Salal dams located on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. This move has raised alarms within Pakistan, where the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) expressed "deep apprehension" over the sudden decrease in inflows at Marala, attributing it directly to India’s decision to limit water access.
This shift signifies a robust re-evaluation of India’s water resource strategy, reinforcing the notion that national interests will take precedence amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. By prioritizing its own needs, India signals a new phase in its relations with Pakistan, particularly regarding water-sharing agreements. As the situation develops, the impact on bilateral relations, as well as the broader implications for regional stability, will be closely monitored.
With the backdrop of ongoing security concerns and a stringent focus on national interests, India’s approach to the Indus River and its tributaries will likely shape future discussions in the context of water resource management and international diplomacy.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/indias-water-will-flow-only-for-the-country-pm-modis-strong-message-to-pakistan-1
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Publish Date: 2025-05-06 22:16:00
