India Snubs Hague Arbitration Over Indus Water Treaty, Pakistan on Edge

The Hague / Islamabad / New Delhi: India has refused to participate in hearings at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague regarding the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), further escalating tensions with Pakistan. The court confirmed in a press release that India did not respond to repeated invitations to attend proceedings initiated by Pakistan over alleged treaty violations.

The controversy centers on India’s Kishanganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects. Pakistan claims the design of these projects breaches the terms of the 1960 treaty, which governs shared river waters. India, however, has rejected the court’s authority, calling the tribunal illegally constituted and inconsistent with treaty provisions.

Strategic Moves on the Chenab River

India’s decision comes as it accelerates dam construction on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. The Sawalakot Hydroelectric Project, costing approximately ₹5,129 crore, is being executed at “war footing” speed under government directives, raising alarm in Pakistan. Islamabad has reportedly reviewed the new dam plans and expressed concerns over India exceeding limits set under the shared water resource treaty.

Since the Pahalgam terror attack last year, India has suspended sharing river-related data with Pakistan and insists that normal treaty discussions are impossible until cross-border terrorism ceases. The Indian government has repeatedly stated that it will neither recognize nor abide by any decision of the so-called arbitration court.

Court Proceedings Continue Despite India’s Absence

The Hague tribunal said Pakistan’s case has entered its second phase, focusing on the merits of the claims. The court noted that India ignored repeated invitations to participate, yet proceedings will continue regardless. Earlier, the court had instructed India to submit technical and operational data related to the Kishanganga and Baglihar projects by 9 February 2026, which India refused to comply with.

India maintains that only the Neutral Expert process—as provided under the treaty—is legally valid, and all other arbitration attempts are contrary to treaty rules. The government has made clear that Pakistan’s ongoing support for cross-border terrorism precludes any meaningful dialogue under the treaty framework.

The standoff marks yet another flashpoint in Indo-Pakistani relations, with India asserting its strategic priorities on river management while Pakistan remains on high alert over potential treaty violations.