Kashmir Backs Suspending Indus Waters Treaty
Kashmir has seen growing public support for suspending the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan. This surge in sentiment follows an unusually hot summer that has dried up canals and rivers across the Valley, leaving farmers and residents without enough water for crops and daily needs.
Treaty Seen as Unfair Amid Climate Crisis
Under the treaty, India receives water from the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej), while Pakistan controls water from the western rivers (Jhelum, Chenab, Indus). However, local farmers argue that melting glaciers and early snowmelt have reduced Kashmir’s water availability, making the existing allocation seem unfair to the region’s growing needs.
Farmers Demand Fair Share
Agricultural communities across Kashmir report dwindling water levels in traditional canals. Farmers say their mustard and rice crops failed this spring due to insufficient water supply. Many believe rerouting more water from western rivers could help protect future crops and ensure food security.
Government’s Move and Public Mood
New Delhi suspended the treaty in April as a response to a terror attack in Pahalgam, citing national security concerns. While the treaty pause is seen as a political move at the national level, Kashmiris are now linking it to their own water crisis. They hope that changing treaty terms could grant them more control over flows from western rivers.
Challenges and Regional Outlook
Experts caution that India cannot immediately redirect these rivers. Hydropower and irrigation projects like Baglihar and Ratle are being fast-tracked, but physical control over cross-border river flows remains complex. Pakistan has warned of serious consequences, viewing treaty suspension as aggressive.
Despite diplomatic and technical challenges, Kashmiris continue to push for a reassessment of their water rights. As climate change deepens water stress, this local movement highlights a growing demand for equitable, region-specific resource management.
