Sherry Rehman Slams India’s “Weaponization of Water” Amid New Hydropower Projects
Introduction Tensions between Pakistan and India have flared again. The issue is water security. Senator Sherry Rehman has issued a stern warning. She condemned India’s recent approval of the Dulhasti Stage-II project. This project is on the Chenab River. Rehman called it a “weaponization of water.” Moreover, she termed it a violation of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
The Core Dispute
The controversy started recently. Reports surfaced about India’s Ministry of Environment. They cleared the 260 MW Dulhasti Stage-II project. This project is in occupied Jammu and Kashmir. It is a run-of-the-river project. However, Pakistan argues it will alter the river’s flow.
Under the IWT, the “Western Rivers” belong to Pakistan. This includes the Chenab. India has limited rights. Specifically, they cannot build storage that disrupts flows.
A Treaty in Limbo?
The timing is critical. Relations regarding the treaty are frozen. In early 2025, India unilaterally “paused” the IWT. They cited security concerns. Since then, New Delhi has fast-tracked projects. For example, they are pushing the Sawalkot project. Additionally, they are building the Ratle Hydroelectric Plant.
Sherry Rehman’s Warning
Senator Rehman spoke at a press conference today. She warned that these are strategic tools. “India is attempting to establish hydro-hegemony,” she stated. Consequently, they threaten Punjab’s agriculture. Furthermore, this risks the food security of 240 million people.
The Diplomatic Standoff
In response, the Pakistan Foreign Office has acted. They drafted a letter to the World Bank. The World Bank guarantees the treaty. Pakistan demands a Court of Arbitration. They want an inspection of the new designs. Otherwise, experts fear a broader conflict could erupt.
