India seeks pause in World Bank proceedings after suspending Indus Waters Treaty

India has formally requested the World Bank-appointed neutral expert to halt ongoing proceedings related to the Kishanganga and Ratle hydroelectric disputes, after suspending its commitments under the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty.

New Delhi's intervention reflects its decision to place the treaty in abeyance following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which it attributed to Pakistan-based militants .

Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed in June that India’s suspension would be indefinite and announced plans to redirect water to domestic canals, including a new Rajasthan project.

Washington-based analysts note that divesting treaty obligations could impact the shared rivers and heighten tensions, although India currently lacks the infrastructure for immediate water control.

Pakistan is reportedly preparing a legal challenge, exploring options through the Permanent Court of Arbitration, International Court of Justice, and public statements labeling India's move a potential “act of war” .

Meanwhile, the World Bank has distanced itself, stating its role under the treaty remains limited to that of a facilitator.

Under treaty provisions, Delhi may now accelerate hydropower projects like Ratle and Kishanganga, and temporarily halt release of river flow data to Islamabad.

Analysts caution these steps could disrupt Pakistan’s farm irrigation, power generation, and economy—given that about 80% of its crops rely on Indus waters.