New Delhi: The Government of India has rejected reports suggesting any ongoing Track II diplomacy with Pakistan or concessions under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), stating that such claims are misleading and factually incorrect, according to top government sources.
Officials clarified that no official Track II engagement has been authorised or supported by the government. They also categorically ruled out any relaxation of India’s position on the Indus Waters Treaty, despite ongoing bilateral tensions and regional developments.
Sources said India’s policy toward Pakistan remains unchanged, with no shift in its diplomatic or strategic approach.
Clarification on Track II engagements
Government sources explained that genuine Track II diplomacy refers to structured dialogue conducted through officially nominated or recognised representatives. They said independent seminars, conferences or think-tank discussions involving participants from both countries do not constitute official diplomatic channels.
According to officials, individuals including serving or former representatives may attend such events in a personal capacity, but these interactions have no government mandate, endorsement or diplomatic authority.
Sources further emphasised that informal interactions between citizens, academics or experts from India and Pakistan should not be misinterpreted as backchannel negotiations. They also clarified that neither country’s embassies are involved in facilitating such engagements.
Indus Waters Treaty position remains unchanged
On the Indus Waters Treaty, sources reiterated that India’s position remains firm following its decision to place the agreement in abeyance on April 23, 2025. The move came after a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which India attributed to Pakistan-linked groups.
The government has stated that the treaty will remain suspended until Pakistan takes credible and irreversible action against cross-border terrorism. Officials also underlined that India will continue advancing hydropower and water management projects on western rivers in line with national interests.
Pakistan has previously rejected India’s suspension of the treaty, while tensions between the two countries continue to remain high.
Sorry, there was a YouTube error.
