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In the wake of escalating tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor, the Indian government is embarking on a comprehensive diplomatic outreach initiative. This initiative involves dispatching 59 prominent Indian political leaders to 32 countries and the European Union headquarters in Brussels. The primary objective is to articulate India's stance on cross-border terrorism, particularly emanating from Pakistan, and to garner international consensus in support of its actions. A crucial aspect of this diplomatic endeavor is the communication surrounding the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). India aims to convey that any actions taken concerning the treaty are not impulsive reactions but rather carefully considered and calibrated steps. The delegation members were explicitly briefed on this nuanced position, emphasizing that the decision to potentially revisit or even place the treaty in abeyance is rooted in a thorough assessment of the evolving geopolitical landscape and the persistent threat of terrorism. The briefing highlighted how conditions have significantly changed since the IWT's inception in the 1960s. New challenges such as climate change and the depletion of water resources have emerged, requiring a reevaluation of the treaty's provisions and their relevance in the present context. Moreover, the erosion of trust and friendship between India and Pakistan, which were fundamental to the treaty's original framework, necessitates a pragmatic approach. The Indian government emphasizes that Pakistan's continued support for terrorism undermines the very foundation upon which the IWT was built, making a reassessment inevitable. The deployment of these multi-party delegations underscores India's democratic strength and its commitment to a unified front in addressing the challenges posed by terrorism. The delegations comprise members from both the ruling BJP-led NDA and opposition parties, demonstrating a bipartisan consensus on the need to combat terrorism and protect India's national interests. This inclusive approach is intended to send a strong message to the international community that India is united in its resolve to counter terrorism and to ensure its security. The Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, played a pivotal role in briefing the delegations, providing them with a comprehensive overview of the government's position and the strategic rationale behind the diplomatic outreach. He emphasized that India is committed to peace but will not tolerate any terror attacks on its soil and will respond decisively, as demonstrated by Operation Sindoor. The delegations are expected to carry dossiers containing evidence of Pakistan's involvement in sponsoring terrorism in India, aimed at convincing host countries of the validity of India's claims and the need for international cooperation in combating terrorism. The Indian government's decision to send these delegations reflects its confidence in its global image and its belief that the international community is receptive to India's perspective on the issue of terrorism. The government asserts that Pakistan's attempts to counter India's narrative through its own "peace delegation" will be unsuccessful, as the world is more inclined to listen to India's voice, given its growing influence and credibility on the global stage.
The Indus Waters Treaty, a cornerstone of water sharing between India and Pakistan for over six decades, has come under renewed scrutiny as bilateral relations have deteriorated, primarily due to Pakistan's alleged support for cross-border terrorism. The treaty, signed in 1960, allocates the waters of the six Indus rivers between the two countries. While it has generally been considered a successful example of water diplomacy, the current geopolitical climate has prompted India to re-evaluate its commitment to the treaty. Officials within the Indian government have argued that the treaty needs to be reworked to address contemporary challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and the changed relationship between the two nations. The argument centers on the premise that the treaty was based on a foundation of trust and cooperation, which has been significantly eroded by Pakistan's actions. The briefing provided to the Indian delegations emphasized that the decision to potentially revisit the IWT is not a knee-jerk reaction to recent events but a calculated step based on a thorough assessment of the evolving circumstances. The government aims to convey to the international community that its actions are not aimed at unilaterally abrogating the treaty but rather at ensuring that it remains relevant and effective in addressing the current realities. The delegations are tasked with explaining that the treaty's effectiveness is contingent on both parties adhering to the principles of good faith and cooperation, which India believes Pakistan has consistently violated. The Indian government also points to the emergence of new challenges, such as climate change and depleting water levels, which were not adequately addressed in the original treaty. These challenges necessitate a comprehensive review and potential renegotiation of the treaty's provisions to ensure sustainable water management and equitable distribution of resources. The government's position is that the IWT should be a dynamic instrument that adapts to changing circumstances and reflects the evolving relationship between the two countries. The deployment of these delegations is part of a broader strategy to isolate Pakistan diplomatically and to build international pressure on the country to cease its support for terrorism. By highlighting Pakistan's alleged role in sponsoring terrorism, India aims to demonstrate that Pakistan is not a reliable partner for regional peace and stability. The delegations are expected to present compelling evidence of Pakistan's involvement in cross-border terrorism, including detailed information on terrorist training camps, financial support networks, and logistical support provided to terrorist groups operating in India. The government hopes that this evidence will convince the international community to take a stronger stance against Pakistan and to demand that it take concrete steps to dismantle its terrorist infrastructure.
The diplomatic outreach undertaken by the Indian government extends beyond the immediate aftermath of the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. It represents a long-term strategy to shape the international narrative on terrorism and to secure India's position as a responsible and reliable global actor. The government recognizes that effective counter-terrorism requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses not only military and security measures but also diplomatic engagement and international cooperation. The decision to send multi-party delegations underscores India's commitment to a bipartisan approach to foreign policy and national security. By including members from both the ruling coalition and opposition parties, the government aims to demonstrate that India is united in its resolve to combat terrorism and to protect its national interests. This united front strengthens India's credibility on the international stage and enhances its ability to garner support for its counter-terrorism efforts. The delegations are tasked with conveying India's perspective on the root causes of terrorism and the need for a comprehensive and coordinated global response. They will emphasize that terrorism is not merely a law and order problem but a complex challenge that requires addressing the underlying factors that contribute to radicalization and extremism. The Indian government believes that a sustainable solution to terrorism requires a multi-pronged approach that includes promoting education, economic development, and good governance, as well as countering extremist ideologies and disrupting terrorist networks. The delegations will also highlight India's own efforts to combat terrorism, including its investments in security infrastructure, intelligence gathering, and law enforcement capabilities. They will emphasize that India is committed to working with the international community to share its expertise and best practices in counter-terrorism. The government's diplomatic outreach is also aimed at building closer ties with key partners and strengthening India's relationships with countries that share its concerns about terrorism. By engaging with a wide range of countries, including those in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, India aims to forge a broad coalition of support for its counter-terrorism agenda. The delegations will also seek to promote India's economic and strategic interests and to showcase the country's growing role as a global leader. The government believes that by demonstrating its commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity, India can further enhance its international standing and strengthen its ability to influence global affairs.
Source: 'Calibrated, Not A Knee-Jerk Reaction': Govt To Op Sindoor Outreach Teams On Indus Waters Treaty