Online Desk: The recent incident of terrorism at Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 tourists tragically lost their lives, has reignited severe geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. India swiftly blamed Pakistan for orchestrating the violence, immediately imposing punitive diplomatic and economic measures against Islamabad.
Foremost among these was India’s unilateral suspension of the historic Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, an action that Pakistan contends not only violates international law but also equates to a declaration of war. The strategic context provides clarity on India’s potential objectives behind blaming Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack.
Domestically, India is grappling with mounting political pressures and internal dissent, especially regarding Kashmir’s disputed status. A narrative attributing violence to external actors conveniently diverts attention from domestic policy shortcomings and unites public opinion against a common external threat—Pakistan.
This is not India’s first time doing this, but we have to understand the larger gains it wants to achieve. Internationally, branding Pakistan as a sponsor of terrorism enables India to diplomatically isolate its neighbour and pressure global actors to withdraw support from Islamabad.
Simultaneously, it justifies India’s aggressive military and political measures in India-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK), including the revocation of Article 370 and harsh security crackdowns that suppress dissent. This narrative also facilitates stronger and unpopular decisions in the name of security.
India’s swift blame on Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack, without transparent investigation, breaches international law, notably Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, which prohibits threats or use of force against another state’s sovereignty. Retaliatory actions like border closures and diplomatic expulsions further violate this norm.
The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) suspension is the most alarming among India’s retaliatory measures. Under the Treaty brokered by the World Bank in 1960, India controls the waters of the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej), while Pakistan retains rights over the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab).
This will strategically reinforce Pakistan’s stance as a responsible international actor and neutralize India’s claims of state-sponsored terrorism. India’s reaction to the tragic Pahalgam attack, especially its unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, represents a significant violation of international law, effectively constituting aggression against Pakistan.
Given historical contexts and international legal standards, Pakistan is justified in challenging India’s actions diplomatically and legally. Pakistan can robustly counter India’s allegations and protect its sovereign rights by invoking international institutions and demonstrating adherence to lawful conduct.
The international community is responsible for ensuring such disputes are resolved peacefully, maintaining regional stability and respect for international norms.