Sindh’s voice heard: Sherry Rehman applauds cancellation of indus canal project”

Islamabad: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Vice President and Senator Sherry Rehman has welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s announcement to cancel the proposed canal projects on the Indus River, calling it a major victory for the people of Sindh.

In a statement, Senator Rehman said, “The federal government’s decision to withdraw from the controversial canal construction is a triumph for the people of Sindh. I especially congratulate President Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for their unwavering efforts in raising this issue.”

She praised the government’s willingness to address the matter through dialogue, describing it as a commendable attempt at a peaceful and constitutional resolution of a sensitive issue. “The Prime Minister’s decision has also completely dismantled the propaganda aimed at discrediting the President and the PPP,” she added.

Senator Rehman highlighted that the government’s announcement to suspend the canal projects until the Council of Common Interests (CCI) makes a decision shows respect for public pressure and democratic norms. “This reversal in the interest of the people is a democratic success,” she said.

She emphasized that the joint efforts of President Asif Ali Zardari, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and the dedicated PPP workers compelled the government to acknowledge the seriousness of the issue.

“The PPP will continue to stand guard against any move that threatens the rights of the people of Sindh and Pakistan,” Rehman reaffirmed. “We have always maintained that the CCI is the only constitutional forum to resolve inter-provincial matters.”

Calling the decision to convene a CCI meeting “a brilliant example of resolving issues within the constitutional framework,” Senator Rehman also addressed the broader challenge of water scarcity and regional water politics.

“There is already a severe water crisis in the country, and India’s water aggression continues to harm Pakistan’s economy and agriculture. India must know that we are united in defending our rivers and resources. Any form of water aggression will have consequences,” she warned.