New Delhi, June 2, 2025 — In a powerful gathering of legal minds and water policy experts, Adhivakta Parishad Delhi Prant organized a thought-provoking symposium on the Indus Water Treaty at the Delhi High Court premises. The event, attended by nearly 300 advocates, marked a critical moment in the growing national discourse around India’s water rights and the treaty’s continued relevance.
The symposium was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha, Vice Chancellor of Dharmashastra National Law University (DNLU), Jabalpur, who served as the Chief Guest. Delivering the keynote address, Sh. Sanjay Poddar, Senior Advocate and President of Adhivakta Parishad, Delhi Prant, offered an inspiring overview of the Parishad’s journey since its formation in 1992. He highlighted the organization’s national character, legal commitment under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, and its guiding principle, “Nyay Mam Dharma” (Justice is my duty).
Prof. Sinha’s address focused on India’s strategic need to reassess the Indus Water Treaty, citing its geopolitical and developmental dimensions. Referring to India’s recent decision to place the treaty in abeyance, he stated,
“India must assert its right to utilize its share of water resources. Humanitarian principles are vital, but they must not compromise national growth and security.”
He called for a renegotiation of the treaty to reflect present-day realities and India’s evolving needs.
The panel featured other eminent speakers:
- Prof. Narendra Singh, former Legal Advisor to the Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized the treaty’s legal and diplomatic strain, particularly pointing to Pakistan’s non-compliance which has weakened bilateral trust.
- Dr. D.V. Thareja, Hydro Power Project Specialist and former Indus Water Commissioner, delivered a technical critique, advocating a revision of outdated provisions that no longer serve India’s infrastructure and energy needs.
- Mr. Srihari Borikar, Organizing Secretary, Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad (ABAP), shed light on how Pakistan’s misinterpretation of the treaty has historically undermined India’s water rights and economic interests.
As the event drew to a close, there was a resounding consensus among participants: the Indus Water Treaty must be reassessed to ensure equitable and sustainable water sharing, aligned with India’s national priorities and developmental goals.
The symposium showcased Adhivakta Parishad’s proactive role in engaging the legal fraternity with pressing national issues, reinforcing its commitment to justice and sovereignty in public policy.
