Modi says Pakistan will not get water from Indian-controlled rivers

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that Pakistan will no longer receive water from the rivers over which India holds rights, intensifying tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22. The incident, which India blames on Pakistan, has led to a series of retaliatory measures, including India‍‍`s suspension of the decades-old Indus Waters Treaty.

Addressing a rally in Rajasthan, Modi warned of serious consequences for Pakistan, saying, "Pakistan will have to pay a heavy price for every terrorist attack... Pakistan’s army will pay it. Pakistan’s economy will pay it." His statement comes amid a backdrop of heightened military alertness and diplomatic freeze, despite a ceasefire agreement reached on May 10.

The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, is vital for Pakistan, providing water from three rivers that support about 80 percent of its agricultural needs. Any disruption could be catastrophic for its economy and food security.

Responding to Modi’s remarks, Pakistan’s Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to the treaty, emphasizing that it is legally binding and cannot be unilaterally altered. He acknowledged recent communications from India suggesting modifications due to demographic and energy demands but insisted that any talks must occur within the treaty‍‍`s framework.

The diplomatic rift is deepening as both countries have already severed trade ties, closed borders, and suspended visa services since the April incident. Meanwhile, tensions flared further following a suicide bombing in Pakistan’s Balochistan province that killed five people, including three children. Pakistan accused Indian-linked groups of involvement, an allegation New Delhi has strongly denied.

As both sides exchange sharp rhetoric and maintain military readiness, the long-standing dispute over Kashmir continues to fuel hostilities, with water now emerging as a potential new flashpoint.