The Indian government did not submit its formal response regarding its actions related to the Indus Waters Treaty, despite the United Nations (UN) deadline having passed.
According to media reports, more than 35 days after the deadline set by United Nations Special Rapporteurs, India has yet to submit a formal response regarding its negative actions related to the Indus Waters Treaty, raising questions at the international level.
UN had asked New Delhi to explain its position by 16th December, 2025. However, despite the lapse of the deadline, India has not issued any official clarification or statement on the matter.
The continued silence has drawn attention as the United Nations is still awaiting a response, while concerns surrounding the implementation and future of the Indus Waters Treaty remain unresolved.
Observers note that India’s lack of engagement has become a focal point in international discussions related to regional water-sharing agreements and compliance with international obligations.
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, governs the distribution and use of water from the Indus River system between India and Pakistan and is considered one of the most enduring transboundary water agreements in the world.
As scrutiny grows, it remains unclear when or whether India will formally address the concerns raised by the UN Special Rapporteurs.
However, the Ministry of Water Resources has recently informed the National Assembly that India’s continued silence on the Indus Waters Treaty is increasingly attracting international attention.
In a written response submitted to the lower house, the ministry stated that India unilaterally suspended the 1960 treaty governing river water sharing in April 2025, following a militant attack in Indian-held Kashmir.
The ministry warned that reduced water availability in the Chenab River could severely affect agricultural production. Approximately 1.45 million acres of farmland irrigated by the Upper Chenab Canal, originating from the Marala Headworks, are expected to face a significant impact.
Read more: Fact Check: Reports of blocking Chenab, Jhelum, Neelum water baseless
