Pakistan has urged the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to take notice of India’s actions affecting rivers governed by the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). The request came through a letter sent by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday.
According to the letter, two Indian infrastructure projects on the Chenab River system aim to divert water flows. Consequently, Pakistan warned that these developments could threaten its water, food, and economic security.
Pakistan Raises Concerns Over Treaty Violations
Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, delivered the letter to the President of the UNSC. He also handed it to Leonor Zalabata Torres, who currently serves as the Council president.
The envoy stated that the letter highlights India’s alleged violations of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty. Furthermore, it draws attention to developments linked to the Chenab River system. Pakistan argues that the projects indicate an intention to alter treaty-governed water flows.
UNSC Asked to Review Regional Situation
According to Pakistani officials, the projects could have serious implications for regional stability. In addition, they warned that water diversion may affect agricultural production and economic activity. Therefore, Pakistan requested the UNSC to take notice of the situation and hold India accountable for alleged treaty violations.
Earlier, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty following a deadly attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. However, Pakistan rejected allegations linking it to the incident. Since then, water-sharing issues have remained a major source of tension between the two neighboring countries.
The Pakistani envoy also briefed the Council president on the broader South Asian situation. Moreover, he raised concerns regarding India’s compliance with UN resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir.
