DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
jammu, Nov 13
Senior BJP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister, Kavinder Gupta today expressed strong disapproval over Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s recent remarks regarding the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), where he suggested that the treaty hampers Jammu & Kashmir’s potential for hydel power generation. Kavinder refuted this claim, emphasizing that water resources and interstate rivers fall under the jurisdiction of the Central Government, limiting the role of states in altering such treaties. Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of a function held at Party headquarters in Jammu, Kavinder Gupta underscored that the Indus Water Treaty, a long-standing agreement between India and Pakistan, was established to ensure equitable water sharing while also maintaining regional peace and stability.
“The Indus Water Treaty cannot be amended or disregarded unilaterally by a state. Such decisions rest solely with the Central Government, which considers the interests of all stakeholders, including Jammu & Kashmir, and ensures the optimal use of resources within the framework of national security and international obligations,” he stated. Kavinder further noted that the Central Government has already taken multiple steps to enhance hydel power capabilities in Jammu & Kashmir, with significant investments and initiatives designed to harness the region’s hydropower potential without compromising treaty obligations. He asked Omar Abdullah to exercise restraint and avoid politicizing complex agreements. The former deputy Chief Minister affirmed that the BJP remains committed to safeguard the interests of Jammu & Kashmir and fostering sustainable development through cooperative and lawful channels.
