In a strong response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people were killed, the Indian government has taken five major steps targeting Pakistan. These decisions were made after a high-level Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who returned early from Saudi Arabia after the attack.
Here are the five key actions:
- Indus Waters Treaty Suspended
India has put the Indus Waters Treaty on hold. This will remain suspended until Pakistan clearly stops supporting cross-border terrorism. - Attari Border Check Post Shut Down
The integrated check post at the Attari border is now closed. Only those who have already crossed over with valid documents can return by May 1, 2025. - SAARC Visa for Pakistanis Cancelled
Pakistani citizens will no longer be allowed to use SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) visas to travel to India. All previously issued SVES visas to Pakistani nationals are cancelled. Anyone already in India with such a visa must leave within 48 hours. - Military Diplomats Asked to Leave
Defence, Naval, and Air advisors at the Pakistani High Commission in Delhi have been declared unwelcome and must leave within a week. India will also withdraw its military officials from its High Commission in Islamabad. Their support staff will be removed as well. - Diplomatic Staff Cut Down
The number of diplomatic staff in both Indian and Pakistani high commissions will be reduced from 55 to 30 by May 1, 2025.
