The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), India’s highest decision-making body on national security, has taken stringent actions against Pakistan following the discovery of cross-border links in the terror attack that killed 26 people, including a foreign national, in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
In response to the attack, which has been linked to miltant groups operating from Pakistan, India has implemented a 5-point action plan that targets Pakistan’s infrastructure, diplomatic presence, and movement across borders.
Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
India has decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, which governs the sharing of river waters between the two countries. This suspension will remain in effect until Pakistan ceases its support for cross-border terrorism. The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, has long been a cornerstone of India-Pakistan relations, and this decision marks a significant shift in diplomatic ties.
Closure of Attari-Wagah Border check post
India has shut the Attari Integrated Check Post, halting all cross-border movement through this route. This includes suspending the movement of people and goods. Individuals who have already crossed over with valid documents will be allowed to return by 01 May 2025. The closure of this major land transit point is aimed at restricting further cross-border movement and sending a strong message to Pakistan.
Cancellation of SAARC Visa exemption scheme (SVES) for Pakistan nationals
In a major blow to diplomatic exchanges, India has suspended the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals. All previously issued SVES visas have been deemed cancelled. Furthermore, Pakistani nationals who are currently in India under the scheme have been given a strict 48-hour deadline to leave the country.
Expulsion of Pakistani Military Advisors
India has expelled all Pakistani military, Naval, and Air advisors stationed at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi. These personnel have been declared Persona Non Grata and must vacate India within one week. In response, India will also withdraw its own military advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. This reciprocal move is part of a broader reduction of diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
Reduction of Diplomatic Personnel
As part of a continued effort to curtail bilateral diplomatic ties, India has announced a reduction in the overall strength of the Indian High Commission in Pakistan. The number of diplomatic personnel in Islamabad will be reduced to 30 by 01 May 2025, down from the current 55. This reduction will further limit the scope of bilateral interactions between the two countries.
The CCS meeting was attended by key government officials, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. The meeting focused on reviewing the ongoing security situation and deliberating on India’s response to the deadly attack.
On the ground, the Indian Army and police forces have launched an extensive operation to track down the perpetrators of the attack. Preliminary reports suggest that the attack was carried out by a group of seven terrorists, including several Pakistani nationals, who opened fire on the unsuspecting tourists. Shah also visited the site of the attack in Pahalgam, as well as the hospital where the injured were being treated.
