New Delhi, April 23, 2025 – In the aftermath of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, the Government of India has issued a stern and unprecedented set of diplomatic and strategic actions targeting Pakistan. These moves signal a severe escalation in bilateral tensions and a marked shift in India’s policy approach.
Key Measures Announced:
- Indus Water Treaty Suspended:
India has declared the Indus Water Treaty “in abeyance,” stating that it is no longer a participant or bound by the treaty’s provisions. This marks a significant development in the decades-old water-sharing agreement brokered in 1960. - Wagah-Attari Border Closed:
With immediate effect, the Wagah-Attari land border crossing has been shut. This move halts all civilian and commercial land transit between the two nations. - SAARC Visas Annulled for Pakistani Nationals:
All SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) visas issued to Pakistani nationals have been cancelled. Those currently in India have been directed to leave the country by May 1st. - Military Diplomats Expelled:
India has declared three Pakistani military attachés in the Pakistan High Commission as persona non grata and ordered their expulsion. India is also recalling its own three military attachés from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Five support staff and the families of the attachés are also being withdrawn. - Diplomatic Staff Reduced:
India has reduced the strength of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi from 55 to 30, mandating a proportional reduction in Islamabad for the Indian High Commission. Both missions will now operate with a capped strength of 30 personnel each.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that these measures reflect India’s “zero tolerance for terrorism” and reaffirm the government’s resolve to ensure the safety and sovereignty of the nation. More responses are expected in the coming days as security agencies continue their investigations into the Pahalgam attack.
Comments