Pakistan shouldn't impede India's rights under Indus Water Treaty, says V K Singh

India was keeping a close watch on developments related to the Indus Water Treaty, he added

India has always adhered to the letter and spirit of the 56-year-old Indus Water Treaty and expects Pakistan to refrain from impeding in any way fullest exercising of India's rights permissible under the pact, Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh said on Thursday.

In a written reply in Rajya Sabha, he said in the recent past, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry has made several statements on the alleged violations of the Treaty by India and stated that the Treaty cannot be altered or revoked unilaterally.

"India expects Pakistan to abide by the Treaty and not impede realisation of the full potential of the development of Indus river and its tributaries," added Singh.

Singh also said that India was keeping a close watch on developments related to the Indus Water Treaty.

"The government, reviews, from time to time, implementation of the Indus Water Treaty. In such a review recently, it was decided that full utilisation of India's rights under the Treaty should be accorded priority," Singh said.

Replying to a separate question on Russia, Pakistan and China coming closer, the minister said the government does not comment on third country relationships.

"It pursues an independent foreign policy driven by India's national interests. The Indian Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on India's security and takes all necessary measures to safeguard its interests," he added.