Srinagar – Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has expressed deep concern over the ongoing controversy surrounding the Indus Waters Treaty, emphasizing that water resources should serve as a bridge of peace, not a source of conflict between India and Pakistan.
Speaking to reporters on [Date, if available, or “recently”], Mufti stated, “The Indus Waters Treaty is a critical agreement that has, for decades, governed the sharing of vital water resources. It is imperative that both India and Pakistan approach this issue with a spirit of cooperation and understanding.”
Her remarks come amid escalating tensions over India’s recent notices to Pakistan, seeking modifications to the treaty. India has cited Pakistan’s persistent objections to Indian hydroelectric projects as a key reason for the push to amend the longstanding agreement.
Mufti cautioned against allowing political disputes to jeopardize the delicate balance maintained by the treaty. “Water is a fundamental necessity, and its equitable distribution is crucial for the well-being of millions on both sides of the border. We cannot afford to let this essential resource become a tool for political maneuvering,” she said.
She stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the current impasse. “Instead of resorting to unilateral actions or escalating rhetoric, both nations must prioritize dialogue and seek mutually agreeable solutions within the framework of the treaty,” Mufti added.
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, allocates the waters of the Indus River and its tributaries between India and Pakistan. The treaty has been hailed as a rare example of successful water resource management between two nations with a history of conflict.
However, recent developments have cast a shadow over the treaty’s future, with both sides expressing differing interpretations and concerns. Mufti’s call for peace and cooperation highlights the sensitive nature of the issue and the need for a pragmatic approach to ensure the continued stability of the region.
