India has questioned World Bank ‘legally untenable action’ in dealing with Indo-Pak differences on Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects under the Indus Waters Treaty. Responding to a media query last evening , External Affairs Ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup said , New Delhi will examine further options and take steps accordingly on Indus Waters Treaty.
On the issue of differences with Pakistan on these Projects, India had asked the World Bank to appoint a Neutral Expert to resolve the differences of a technical nature. Pakistan had sought the establishment of a Court of Arbitration, which is normally the logical next step in the process of resolution in the Treaty. The Neutral Expert can also determine that there are issues beyond mere technical differences.
The World Bank has decided to proceed with both steps simultaneously. It was pointed by the Government to the World Bank that the pursuit of two parallel difference/ dispute resolution mechanisms – appointment of a Neutral Expert and establishment of a Court of Arbitration – at the same time is legally untenable.
Inexplicably, the World Bank has decided to continue to proceed with these two parallel mechanisms simultaneously. Mr Swarup said, India cannot be party to actions which are not in accordance with Indus Waters Treaty.