Pakistan condemns Bihar CM, flags Indus Water concerns

WEB DESK: Islamabad: Pakistan has strongly condemned the reported harassment of a female doctor by the Chief Minister of India’s Bihar state and urged the Indian government to ensure the effective protection of minority rights and religious freedom.

Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson Tahir Andarabi described the act of forcibly removing the doctor’s hijab as “inhuman and condemnable” and highlighted that minorities in India continue to face systematic discrimination.

Water Security Concerns

In addition, Pakistan expressed deep concern over sudden fluctuations in the flow of the Chenab River. Since December 7, abnormal changes in water levels have been observed. Pakistan’s Indus Water Commission has sent a formal letter to its Indian counterpart, seeking clarification in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Indus Waters Treaty.

The Foreign Office stated that India’s release of water without prior notification has raised serious concerns and constitutes a violation of the treaty. Andarabi added that India has also breached international norms by failing to provide water data and related information.

Pakistan emphasized that any unilateral action regarding river flows is unacceptable and called on the international community to take note of India’s treaty violations, warning that such measures pose a threat to regional peace. The spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to being a responsible state that respects international agreements.