Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said India would not allow the waters of the Indus river system to benefit countries that support terrorism, reiterating the government's position following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Addressing an "Intellectuals Meet" organised by the Telangana BJP in Hyderabad, Singh said the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) sent a clear message to Pakistan.
"After the Pahalgam terror attack, by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, we said that those whose tears have dried up should not expect water from us. We will not let the waters of the Sindhu reach the patrons of terrorists and enemies of humanity," he said.
His remarks echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement after the attack that "blood and water will not flow together".
The Indus Waters Treaty, signed between India and Pakistan on September 19, 1960, governs the sharing of waters from the Indus river system.
Singh said Operation Sindoor had demonstrated India's resolve to respond firmly to terrorism.
"Through Operation Sindoor, we have shown the world that India knows how to respond to those who do not understand the language of peace and harmony," he said.
Referring to the NDA government's record over the past 12 years, the Defence Minister cited the abrogation of Article 370, the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax, progress in tackling Naxalism, nationwide electrification, and reforms in the justice system.
"There was a time when Congress used to say that no one could abolish Article 370. But you have seen our government abolish it with ease," he said.
Singh also pointed to developments in Jammu and Kashmir, saying the region was witnessing growth in tourism, investment, and employment opportunities.
He said the national flag now flies at Srinagar's Lal Chowk, Krishna Janmashtami celebrations have been held there, Muharram processions are being conducted peacefully, and cinema halls that had remained closed for decades have reopened.
India has maintained that the Indus Waters Treaty will remain in abeyance until Pakistan takes credible and irreversible steps to end support for cross-border terrorism.