HYDERABAD: Pakistan will not remain silent if India forces it into war, declared Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, warning that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) is a direct assault on the Indus Valley civilisation, culture, and history.
Speaking at the concluding ceremony of the three-day annual urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai in Bhit Shah on Monday evening, Bilawal stressed that while Pakistan consistently advocates peace, any aggression from India will be met with unwavering resistance.
“If war is waged, then from the land of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, we will send a clear message to the Modi government: we do not retreat, we do not bow down. If you dare attack the Indus River, people from every province will rise to defend it,” he vowed.
Modi’s Decision Called ‘An Attack on Civilisation
Bilawal reminded the audience that after India’s recent defeat in war, New Delhi struck at Pakistan’s lifeline by suspending the IWT unilaterally. He said the Indus River is not just the country’s primary water resource but a vital link to its ancient heritage.
“The Indus Civilisation is tied to this river. When Modi threatens it, he attacks our civilisation, our history, and our culture,” Bilawal said, adding that the people of Sindh have always been the first to defend the river against external threats.
Global Awareness Campaign Against India’s Actions
Highlighting his efforts, the PPP chief recalled standing on the riverbanks at the start of the dispute, pledging to expose Modi’s actions before the world. He claimed that Pakistan’s narrative successfully countered India’s “false propaganda” and that global awareness was raised about the threat to the water supply of 200 million Pakistanis.
“I have exposed every lie of Modi before the world,” Bilawal asserted.
Call for National Unity
Addressing the public, he urged nationwide unity to protect the Indus and oppose what he termed “Modi’s brutality.” Bilawal emphasised that Pakistanis have the strength to confront their adversary and reclaim control over the six rivers.
Tribute to Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai
Bilawal also paid homage to Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, praising his teachings for inspiring resilience in the face of challenges. He noted that his family has followed the tradition of visiting the saint’s shrine for generations, drawing guidance from Bhitai’s wisdom.
This year, the annual urs coincided with Pakistan’s Independence Day and Ma’arka-i-Haq celebrations, making the event a symbolic reminder of unity and cultural heritage.