TOBA TEK SINGH: Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has said that the issue of canals should not be politicised and will be resolved through mutual understanding and consultation with coalition partners, particularly the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).
Speaking to the media during a visit to Toba Tek Singh Saturday, Tarar assured that all federal planning and decisions would involve input from allies, emphasising efforts being made to improve the country’s economy.
“The PPP is our coalition partner and we will consult them on all matters,” he said.
“This is not an issue for politics. Addressing coalition partners’ concerns is our responsibility and we will resolve the matter of canals through dialogue.”
Referring to recent criticism from PPP leaders, Tarar said, “We have the 1991 Water Accord, the IRSA Act and the Constitution. There are clear legal frameworks in place. Even Sharjeel Memon said today that the matter should be resolved amicably—this is also the PPP’s stance.”
He added that PPP holds key constitutional positions including the presidency, governorship, and chairmanship of the Senate.
“As coalition partners, it is essential we resolve differences through negotiations,” he said.
Tarar further stated that, under the IRSA Act, no province’s water can be diverted to another, and a fair water distribution mechanism is already in place.
“Our leadership believes all issues should be resolved through dialogue and coalition partners’ concerns must be addressed.”
The statement comes amid tensions between PPP and PML-N over a controversial canal project from the Indus River.
On Friday, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari warned that the party could withdraw support from the federal government if the project was not scrapped.
Gandapur sold his land for PTI, now facing conspiracy, claims Marwat
In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif have directed their party to address PPP’s concerns on the issue.