Pakistan and India remain engaged in a legal dispute under the Indus Waters Treaty, as an international tribunal has issued new procedural directions. The tribunal has ordered India to submit operational logbooks for the Baglihar and Kishanganga hydropower projects by February 9. If India fails to comply, it must formally explain the reasons to the court.
Pakistan has also been directed to clarify by February 2 which specific documents it seeks from India. The second phase of hearings on the merits of the case is scheduled for February 2 and 3 in The Hague. The tribunal stressed that proceedings will continue even if India does not participate.
A senior Pakistani delegation, led by the Attorney General, will represent Pakistan before the tribunal. Officials say the case focuses on India’s alleged misuse of hydropower provisions under the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan argues that India has illegally stored water at its dams, affecting downstream flows. According to Pakistan, the operational logbooks are key evidence to support claims of water withholding.
The tribunal underlined that it alone has the authority to approve any additional water storage. It clarified that neutral experts cannot permit interim actions. Records from dams in Indian-administered Kashmir are seen as critical to resolving the dispute. Legal experts in Pakistan view the order as a procedural gain that strengthens Pakistan’s position.
Earlier, on November 12, 2025, Pakistan announced it would participate in Neutral Expert proceedings under the Indus Waters Treaty, despite India’s decision to stay away. The Foreign Office said the Court of Arbitration issued important clarifications on November 10, 2025. These clarifications expanded the court’s jurisdiction beyond freeboard issues. They cover all components of run-of-river hydropower plants on the Western Rivers.
The court also ruled that any design allowing artificial water level increases above approved limits is prohibited. Pakistan welcomed the clarification, calling it helpful for interpreting the treaty. The court confirmed that arbitration will proceed in phases. It will consider the Neutral Expert process under Article IX and Annexure F.
The Neutral Expert proceedings, initiated by India, are set to enter the next phase in Vienna from November 17 to 21, 2025. Pakistan has confirmed full participation in good faith. Officials noted that India’s absence does not halt the process.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over water management. It also underscores the importance of legal mechanisms under the Indus Waters Treaty to address complex transboundary water issues.
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