rki.news
By Mian Naveed Afzal, Bureau Chief Lahore
Pakistan has secured a significant legal victory at the international level after the International Court of Arbitration ruled in favour of Pakistan’s position on the Indus Waters Treaty.
The court stated that India cannot unilaterally suspend or render the treaty ineffective, reaffirming its status as an internationally recognised agreement established under the guarantee of the World Bank. The ruling emphasized that Pakistan’s interpretation of the treaty is legally sound and fully consistent with international law. It also rejected India’s position on suspension of the agreement, stating that such claims lack legal basis under the treaty framework.
According to the decision, India cannot freely store water through hydropower projects on the western rivers and must provide operational and technical data related to water resources to Pakistan. India has also been directed to share hydrological and technical information regarding the Kishanganga and Ratle projects.
The court further accepted Pakistan’s concerns regarding environmental flows and dismissed attempts to use water resources as a political instrument. Legal experts say the ruling strengthens Pakistan’s legal standing under international water law.
Pakistan welcomed the decision, describing it as a victory for international law, justice, and fair arbitration.