31st January 2023
Editorials
Context:
The Indian government has decided to negotiate the Indus water treaty with Pakistan citing disputes over the Kishenganga and Ratle hydropower projects in Jammu & Kashmir.
Issues between India and Pakistan:
- Water sharing and demands: India has argued since 2006, when the objections began, that the Hydropower projects were within the treaty’s fair water use, as permitted to India on west flowing rivers (Chenab and Jhelum).
- Pakistan’s move to third-party negotiations: Pakistan has refused to conclude negotiations with India via the Permanent Indus Commission of experts and the issue escalated.
- The World Bank interference: Later on, the World Bank appointed a neutral expert, even though Pakistan urged the issue in Hague conference.