India Strikes Back: 7 Tough Steps Against Pakistan After Pahalgam Attack

India has responded strongly after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. Following the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his stance clear. He declared, “India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers involved in the Pahalgam carnage.” Moreover, he promised to chase down the culprits to the “ends of the earth.”

Cabinet Committee on Security Charts Out a Plan

A day after the attack, the Cabinet Committee on Security met under Modi’s leadership. During the two-and-a-half-hour meeting, the committee approved five major actions against Pakistan. In addition, it instructed the security forces to maintain high alert. It also vowed to bring the attackers to justice.

India Suspends Indus Waters Treaty

First, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty. This treaty, signed in 1960, manages the use of the Indus river system between both countries. It includes rivers like Ravi, Beas, Sutlej, Jhelum, Chenab, and Indus. India said the suspension would stay unless Pakistan stops aiding cross-border terrorism.

Indian Government Expels Military Diplomats

Next, India expelled three Pakistani military officials from their High Commission in Delhi. Additionally, it told Pakistan to cut its staff size in the mission from 55 to 30.

SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme Cancelled for Pakistan

Furthermore, India revoked Pakistan’s access to the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced, “Any Pakistani national currently in India under SVES has 48 hours to leave.”

India Shuts Down Key Border Post

As another step, India shut the Integrated Check Post at Attari immediately. This post was the only working land route between the two countries. Misri clarified that those who entered legally can exit through it until May 1.

Military Advisors Ordered Out

In addition, India declared Pakistani defence, navy, and air advisors in Delhi as persona non grata. They have one week to leave. India will also withdraw its own military advisors from Islamabad.

Visa Services Suspended for Pakistani Nationals

Moreover, the Ministry of External Affairs suspended visa services for Pakistani citizens with immediate effect. It also revoked all existing visas from April 27. Medical visas will stay valid until April 29. The ministry instructed all Pakistani nationals in India to leave before their visas expire.

Border Ceremony Scaled Down

Lastly, India scaled down the retreat ceremonies at Attari, Hussainiwala, and Sadki. These ceremonies, held along the Punjab border, usually attract many tourists. However, the Border Security Force made the change due to rising tensions.