In response to the recent attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian government has escalated its efforts, convening a high-level meeting of the Union Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).
The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, led to the announcement of several significant decisions aimed at addressing national security concerns.
Key figures, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, participated in the discussions, resulting in five crucial resolutions.
Suspension of the Indus Water Treaty: The 1960 Indus River Water Sharing Treaty has been suspended with immediate effect. This decision will remain in place until Pakistan ceases its support for terrorism across the border.
Closure of the Attari Border: The Attari border has been closed immediately. Pakistani nationals who have entered India through this route with valid documents are required to depart by May 1, 2025.
Suspension of SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES): Pakistani nationals will no longer be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. All visas previously issued under this program are now canceled. Furthermore, Pakistani nationals currently residing in India under this scheme have been given 48 hours to leave the country.
Diplomatic Measures: Defence, Military, Naval, and Air Advisers at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared "persona non grata" and given one week to depart India. Additionally, Indian Defence, Naval, and Air Advisers in Islamabad have been recalled, and their positions at the respective High Commissions have been dissolved. Five support staff members associated with these posts will also be withdrawn from both missions.
Reduction of High Commission Staff: The strength of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad will be further reduced from 55 to 30 by May 1, 2025.
These steps reflect India's firm stance on national security and the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism emanating from across the border.