Bilawal Calls India’s IWT Suspension an Attack on Indus Valley Legacy

Swift Summary:

• Pakistan’s former foreign minister, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, criticized India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, calling it an “attack on the Indus valley civilisation and culture.”
• Speaking at a festival held at the shrine of Sindhi saint Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai,Mr.Bilawal stated that while Pakistan advocates peace, it would respond strongly if forced into war.
• He warned that Pakistani citizens from all provinces would be ready to confront India if its actions escalate to affecting the Indus River water supply.
• Following a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, India took punitive measures against Pakistan, including placing the treaty in “abeyance.”
• Mr. Bilawal emphasized that the Indus River is vital as Pakistan’s primary water source and is intertwined with its history and identity.
• He highlighted efforts to bring global attention to threats of cutting off water for 200 million people.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty has raised concerns about escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. While this decades-old treaty has been critical in managing shared water resources peacefully across borders, its “abeyance” signals serious diplomatic fallout after recent events such as terror attacks linked to Pakistan-based groups. From India’s perspective, this action may reflect growing frustration over unresolved security challenges emanating from across the border.

Mr. Bilawal’s statements underline how deeply intertwined natural resources are with national identity and geopolitical stability in South Asia. Should tensions persist or worsen further over shared rivers like the Indus-a lifeline for both countries-the repercussions could be severe for regional stability and livelihoods dependent on these waters. Trust-building measures will remain essential to prevent escalation from resource-related disputes into broader conflict.

For detailed coverage: The Hindu