NATIONAL: No Compromise on Indus Waters: Pakistan Army Chief’s Fresh Rant
Asim Munir Asserts Water Is a Red Line for Pakistan
Indus Waters Are the Right of Every Pakistani Citizen
Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir has reiterated that there will be no compromise on the Indus Waters Treaty. Addressing a gathering of vice-chancellors, principals, and senior faculty members from various universities, he declared that water is a non-negotiable issue for Pakistan. “Water is Pakistan’s red line. We will not allow any compromise on this fundamental right of 240 million Pakistanis,” Munir stated.
He further emphasized that there can be no agreements on Kashmir, adding, “We will never forget Kashmir.”
Inspiration for Terror Tied to Previous Remarks
It is widely speculated that Munir’s earlier speeches, referring to Kashmir as the “lifeline” of Pakistan, may have inspired recent terrorist activities, including the Pahalgam attack. Following that deadly incident, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty—marking the first such action since the agreement’s inception in the 1960s.
In retaliation, India launched strikes on terror camps in Pakistan. This escalated into a limited military confrontation, during which over eight Pakistani military installations were severely damaged.
Origin and Provisions of the Treaty
The Indus Waters Treaty was signed in September 1960 by then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistani President Ayub Khan, with the World Bank acting as a mediator. The treaty grants India rights over the eastern rivers—Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—collectively carrying about 33 million acre-feet (MAF) of water annually. Pakistan was allocated the western rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab—with a combined annual flow of 135 MAF.
Munir’s Broader Message to Academia
Speaking on national responsibility, Munir stated, “If I am in this position today, it is because of my parents and teachers. The story of Pakistan must be passed on to the next generation. It is your responsibility to shape their character.” He also dismissed the Baloch separatist movement, claiming it is externally driven and not supported by the local population.