New Delhi: In a strong diplomatic and strategic response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, India on Wednesday unveiled a series of firm measures aimed at holding Pakistan accountable for its continued support for cross-border terrorism. The announcement followed a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, addressing a special press conference, said the government has decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 until Pakistan credibly and irreversibly ends its support for terrorism. Additionally, the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari will be shut down with immediate effect.
“The perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack and their sponsors will be brought to justice,” Misri said, highlighting that cross-border linkages to the attack were clearly established during the CCS briefing.
Key Measures Announced:
Indus Waters Treaty Held in Abeyance: Effective immediately, all provisions of the 1960 agreement will be suspended until Pakistan takes verifiable steps to stop supporting terrorism.
Closure of Attari Check Post: The ICP at Attari has been closed. Individuals who crossed over with valid permits may return through that route before May 1, 2025.
Reduction in High Commission Staff: The strength of both Indian and Pakistani High Commissions will be brought down from 55 to 30. This reduction is to be implemented by May 1, 2025.
Persona Non Grata Designation: Defence, Military, Naval, and Air Advisors in the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared persona non grata and instructed to leave India within a week.
Reciprocal Withdrawal: India will withdraw its defence, navy, and air advisors from its high commission in Islamabad. These posts are now considered annulled.
SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme Suspended: Pakistani nationals will no longer be allowed to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. Any existing SPES (SAARC Preferential Entry Scheme) visas are cancelled, and those currently in India on such visas have been given 48 hours to exit.
Misri underscored that the CCS has directed all security agencies to remain on high alert. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to pursue all those involved in acts of terror, drawing a parallel with the recent extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
This strong diplomatic offensive comes as Jammu & Kashmir continues its journey toward stability, having recently conducted successful elections and made notable strides in development and growth.
