India halts Chenab river flow to Pakistan after attack

New Delhi

Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, the Narendra Modi government has decided to halt water flow from the Salal Dam on the Chenab River to Pakistan, citing national security and public sentiment. BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya praised the decision, calling it a part of the muscular Modi Doctrine and highlighting the symbolism of closing the dam gates. He stated, Water and the blood of our citizens cannot flow together.

The decision reflects growing calls within India to reassess the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), a 1960 water-sharing agreement with Pakistan. While India has upheld the treaty even during conflicts, the Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians, has altered relations with Pakistan.

Former Union Minister Farooq Abdullah supported renegotiating the treaty, asserting India’s right to its water. The decision to stop the water flow comes alongside other retaliatory measures, including anti-terror operations and the suspension of cultural and trade ties with Pakistan.