In a discussion on Indo-Pak water relations on a TV channel, the Pakistan representative called for an independent commission to adjudicate disputes arising out of difference in interpretation of the various clauses of the Indus Water Treaty. The Indian representative, while agreeing that there can be differences in interpretation by the two sides, insisted that in the presence of the Treaty there was no need for an independent commission. India has adopted this unreasonable attitude ever since Indira Ghandi prevailed upon Z A Bhutto to treat Kashmir as a bilateral issue without involvement of a third party. The Simla Agreement has not only harmed Pakistan’s historical stand on Kashmir but has also made a resolution of the water dispute very difficult.
ENGR KHURSHID ANWER
Lahore
