In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, India has announced a series of seven stringent measures against Pakistan, signaling its firm stance against cross-border terrorism. The decisions were finalized during a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Key Measures Taken by India:
- Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty: India has suspended the 1960 World Bank-brokered treaty, which governs water sharing between the two nations. The suspension will remain in effect until Pakistan takes credible steps to end its support for terrorism.
- Expulsion of Diplomats: India has expelled three Pakistani military attaches and directed Islamabad to reduce its High Commission staff in New Delhi from 55 to 30.
- 48-Hour Deadline for Pakistani Nationals: All Pakistani nationals in India have been given 48 hours to leave the country. Additionally, visas under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) have been revoked.
- Closure of the Attari-Wagah Border: The Integrated Check Post at the Attari-Wagah border has been shut down, halting bilateral movement. Those who crossed over with valid documents must return by May 1.
- Persona Non Grata Declaration: All defense, military, naval, and air advisors in the Pakistani High Commission have been declared persona non grata and given a week to leave India. India has also withdrawn its own defense advisors from Islamabad.
- Visa Suspension: India has suspended all visa services for Pakistani nationals, with existing visas revoked effective April 27. Medical visas will remain valid only until April 29.
- Scaling Down of Beating Retreat Ceremony: The Border Security Force (BSF) has scaled down the ceremonial display at the Attari-Wagah border, reflecting India’s serious concerns over cross-border hostilities.
These measures come as India vows to identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers involved in the Pahalgam attack. Prime Minister Modi has declared that India’s spirit will never be broken by terrorism, emphasizing the need for decisive action to safeguard national security.
Stay tuned for more updates on India-Pakistan relations and national security developments.