ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has firmly dismissed what it described as reckless remarks by Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, emphasizing that it will take all appropriate measures to protect its lawful entitlements under the Indus Waters Treaty.
Speaking at an event in Madras, the Indian minister, without directly mentioning Pakistan, stated that India reserves the right to defend its citizens if another country persistently supports terrorism. In response, Pakistan’s Foreign Office warned that any attempt by India to act unilaterally on the Indus Waters Treaty would threaten regional peace and cast doubt on New Delhi’s claims of adhering to international legal commitments.
Pakistan reiterated its long-standing objections to India’s unilateral steps related to the treaty, stressing that such actions are unlawful and constitute a red line for Islamabad.
The Foreign Office also accused India of contributing to regional insecurity and supporting terrorism, asserting that the international community is aware of India’s alleged involvement in destabilizing activities, particularly against Pakistan. As evidence, officials referenced the arrest of Indian national Kulbhushan Jadhav in Balochistan in March 2016, describing it as proof of state-backed subversive actions.
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi further highlighted concerns over alleged extrajudicial killings, proxy-based sabotage, and covert backing of militant groups, calling these developments deeply troubling. He claimed such actions are consistent with extremist elements linked to Hindutva ideology.
The spokesperson also alleged that fighters from the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), operating from Afghan territory, conduct cross-border attacks with Indian support.
Additionally, Pakistan reiterated its position on Jammu and Kashmir, condemning what it termed India’s illegal and forceful occupation of the region. Islamabad reaffirmed its commitment to offering political, moral, and diplomatic backing to the Kashmiri people in their pursuit of self-determination, in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions.
