Naresh Tikait Criticizes India’s Decision to Stop Water Flow to Pakistan, Says It Will Harm Farmers on Both Sides

April 28, 2025 4:40 PM

Naresh Tikait Criticizes India’s Decision to Stop Water Flow to Pakistan, Says It Will Harm Farmers on Both Sides

Indian Farmers Union President Naresh Tikait has sparked controversy by opposing the Indian government’s decision to stop river water flowing to Pakistan, stating that such a move would harm farmers on both sides. Tikait emphasized that the water should not be blocked as it would negatively impact farmers in Pakistan as well. This stance has drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, with BJP Kisan Morcha President Rajkumar Chahar accusing Tikait of speaking the language of Pakistan and demanding an apology from him.

Chahar stated, “Prime Minister Modi has taken several steps, including stopping water flow to Pakistan, but Naresh Tikait has called these actions wrong. He has started speaking Pakistan’s language and should feel ashamed. I condemn his statement and urge him to apologize to the nation.”

The remarks have intensified tensions between farmer leaders and political parties. Tikait’s brother, Rakesh Tikait, has also used similar language, leading both brothers to come under political fire. The controversy comes amid heightened security concerns following a terror attack in Pahalgam, with political leaders emphasizing unity against terrorism while criticizing statements perceived as undermining national interests.