Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued a strong warning to India, declaring that any attempt to block the flow of water to Pakistan will not go unanswered.
Speaking passionately at a jirga in Peshawar on Tuesday, the premier stated, “The enemy will bear the brunt if it tries to stop our water. Every drop of water is the rightful due of the people of Pakistan.”
In what appeared to be a clear message to New Delhi, the prime minister reminded the audience of the past, saying, “The enemy has already seen what happens when it provokes war. This nation stands united with its armed forces.”
Water security for Pakistan was a major theme in Shehbaz’s address, as he tied it directly to national survival and dignity. He stressed that Pakistan would not compromise on its share of river waters and that the people of Pakistan must be assured of their rights being protected.
PM Shehbaz also lauded Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir, crediting him with strong leadership. “Under his command, the Pakistan Armed Forces have taught the enemy a lesson they won't forget,” he said, referring to recent escalations with India.
While praising the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the prime minister called them brave, honourable, and deeply patriotic. He recalled their unmatched sacrifices, especially during the war on terror and the tragic Army Public School incident. “KP has always raised the national flag high whenever Pakistan needed support. Their sacrifices will be written in golden letters in our history,” he said.
On governance matters, Shehbaz addressed long-standing concerns about the NFC Award revision, acknowledging that it had been 15 years since the last award. He shared that a committee had been formed to revisit the issue, with provincial representation already in motion.
In response to growing concerns over terrorism, the prime minister acknowledged that both KP and Balochistan had paid a heavy price. He revealed that over Rs700 billion had been provided to KP during different phases of anti-terror efforts, underlining the government's commitment to supporting the frontline regions.
To ensure KP’s grievances are addressed, the prime minister announced the formation of a new committee. “We will look into KP-related matters immediately and proceed with full consensus among all stakeholders,” he promised.
Looking back at past confrontations with India, Shehbaz recalled the critical moment when Field Marshal Asim Munir informed him of an Indian attack at 2:30am. “The nation prayed for our forces, and they delivered,” he said, reinforcing Pakistan's commitment to national defence and unity.
Concluding his speech, the prime minister shared his optimism about the future. “I’ve visited four countries recently and saw the hope in their eyes. Just like we’ve succeeded in war, we will achieve economic victory for Pakistan, Insha’Allah.”
With rising regional tensions, the prime minister’s powerful address has reignited focus on water security for Pakistan, unity in the face of external threats, and the need for economic revival backed by strong governance and national resolve.
