Violation of Indus Waters Treaty an Attack on Pakistan’s Sovereignty: Azma Bokhari

Says India Must Abandon the Illusion of Using Water as a Weapon; Pakistan Ready to Respond to Every Act of Aggression

By Muhammad Shahzad
Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari has said that any violation of the Indus Waters Treaty by India would amount to a direct attack on Pakistan’s sovereignty and a breach of international law.

In a statement issued on Monday, the minister criticized India’s BJP-led government, alleging that it has adopted a fascist approach by assuming it can violate the Indus Waters Treaty and internationally accepted principles governing transboundary water distribution without facing accountability.

Azma Bokhari said the Indian government’s belief that it is beyond international scrutiny is a serious miscalculation. She added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his supporters should remember that Pakistan has repeatedly demonstrated its resolve to defend its national interests and possesses the capability to respond to every act of aggression.

The minister emphasized that the Indus River is the lifeline of Pakistan’s agriculture, economy, and national survival. She stated that any attempt to undermine Pakistan’s water rights or violate the Indus Waters Treaty would not only breach international legal obligations but would also constitute a direct challenge to Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Reaffirming the government’s position, Azma Bokhari said Pakistan would never compromise on its national security, water rights, or the interests of its people. She stressed that any unlawful action or provocation concerning the Indus River would not be tolerated and that Pakistan would continue to raise its legitimate concerns at all relevant international forums to safeguard its lawful rights.