New Delhi: In a powerful response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed the lives of 26 individuals including a foreign national, India has taken sweeping measures against Pakistan. Following revelations of cross-border involvement in the assault, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has implemented decisive actions that have sent shockwaves across the diplomatic landscape.
Among the most significant steps is the suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, a long-standing water-sharing pact between India and Pakistan. This decision comes amid growing frustration over Pakistan’s alleged continued support for cross-border terrorism.
🔥 Key Measures Announced by the Indian Government:
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Indus Waters Treaty Suspended Indefinitely: The pact, brokered by the World Bank and considered a rare example of cooperation between the two nuclear nations, has been placed in abeyance until Pakistan permanently halts support for terrorist activities.
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Closure of Attari-Wagah Border: Effective immediately, the Attari Integrated Check Post has been shut. Those already in India with valid entry are permitted to exit via the same route by May 1, 2025.
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SVES Visa Ban for Pakistan: The SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES), which allows specific Pakistani dignitaries to travel without a visa, has been scrapped. All existing SVES visas for Pakistani nationals are canceled, and current holders must exit India within 48 hours.
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Diplomatic Expulsions: Pakistan’s naval and air advisers in its High Commission in Delhi have been declared Persona Non Grata and must leave within seven days. India will reciprocate by withdrawing similar officials from its High Commission in Islamabad. Additionally, support staff will also be withdrawn immediately.
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Diplomatic Staff Reduction: By May 1, 2025, both High Commissions will reduce their personnel count from 55 to 30.
🛑 “Terror Has a Cost,” Says India
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, while addressing the press, emphasized the significance of the attack’s timing—occurring right after peaceful elections and economic progress in Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that India will not tolerate such provocations and will relentlessly pursue justice, citing the recent extradition of Tahawwur Rana as an example.
Water Resources Minister CR Paatil echoed the sentiment, labeling the treaty suspension as “a strong and necessary move,” emphasizing that perpetrators of terrorism will face strict consequences.
🌊 What the Indus Waters Treaty Suspension Means
The Indus Waters Treaty gives India full rights over the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej, while Pakistan has access to the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab. With this treaty now suspended, water flow dynamics may change drastically—posing a severe threat to Pakistan’s water security, already strained by mismanagement, overpopulation, and climate pressures.
⚠️ Pakistan’s Concerns
Historically, Pakistan has warned that altering or exiting the Indus treaty would be seen as an “act of war.” This latest move by India demonstrates the growing depth of diplomatic breakdown and India’s hardened stance against state-sponsored terrorism.
