Indus Waters Treaty a ‘historic mistake’, termination a strong message to Pakistan: LG Sinha

Jammu: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday described the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) as a ‘historic mistake’ and said its termination is a strong and appropriate response to Pakistan. He added that the move will significantly benefit Jammu and Kashmir by allowing it to fully tap into its hydropower potential.

Speaking at the release of a monograph titled ‘Indus Water Treaty – Mirroring the Facts’ by author Sant Kumar Sharma, Sinha said the government of India’s decision to end the treaty following the Pakistan-sponsored Pahalgam terror attack in April, which killed 26 people.

“India has made it clear: blood and water cannot flow together; nor can terror and talks or terror and trade coexist,” he said.

The LG emphasised that with the treaty’s termination, India will now have full control over the waters of the Jhelum and Chenab rivers. “This means our water will now benefit only India. It opens up possibilities for building new infrastructure, power plants, and irrigation systems in Jammu and Kashmir, especially in barren regions,” he said.

Sinha noted that the IWT had long been seen as unfair and one-sided, restricting development in the region. Quoting past parliamentary debates, he said the treaty had hampered infrastructure growth in JK for decades.

He also paid tribute to the civilians killed in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and pledged continued support to their families. “Justice will be delivered. No victim’s family will be left behind. Encroached properties will be vacated, and support, including jobs and financial help, will be extended,” he said.