India's 5 Actions against Pakistan after Pahalgam terror attack

India’s 5 Actions against Pakistan after Pahalgam terror attack

In response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, India has taken firm steps against Pakistan including treaty suspension, border closure, visa cancellations, and expulsion of military advisors to send a strong message against cross border terrorism.

Raunak Last updated on April 24th, 2025 12:02 pm

On 22 April 2025, a horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, shook the entire country. The attack took the lives of 26 innocent tourists and left many others injured. India strongly believes that Pakistan based terrorist groups were behind this brutal act. In response, the Indian government has taken five strong actions against Pakistan to send a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated.

Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty

One of the most serious steps taken by India is the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. This treaty, signed in 1960, was meant to ensure fair water sharing between India and Pakistan. But India has now put the agreement on hold until Pakistan takes solid steps to stop supporting terrorism across the border.

Closure of the Attari-Wagah Border

India has also shut down the Attari Wagah border, which is a major land route for people and goods moving between India and Pakistan. This action was taken to restrict any form of interaction until there is a shift in Pakistan’s behavior. The closure will affect travel, trade, and other cross border activities.

Cancellation of SAARC Visa Exemptions

Another strong decision was to cancel the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani citizens. This means that Pakistani nationals who earlier had visa-free travel under the SAARC agreement must now leave India within 48 hours. This move is aimed at reducing Pakistan’s diplomatic and civilian presence in India.

Expulsion of Pakistani Military Advisors

In a major diplomatic move, India has declared all Pakistani military and defense advisors posted in New Delhi as persona non grata. These officials have been given a deadline of one week to leave the country. At the same time, India is recalling its own defense and military officers from the Indian mission in Islamabad.

Diplomatic Staff Reduction

India has also announced that it will reduce the strength of its High Commission in Islamabad. By 1 May 2025, the number of Indian diplomatic staff in Pakistan will be brought down from 55 to 30. This step is part of India’s broader plan to cut down diplomatic engagement with Pakistan.

FAQs

What is the Indus Waters Treaty?

The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, manages the sharing of river waters between India and Pakistan.

What does the closure of the Attari-Wagah border mean?

The Attari-Wagah border is a key land route between India and Pakistan. Its closure stops the movement of people and goods, symbolizing a freeze in ties.

What is the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme and why was it canceled?

The SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme allowed visa-free travel for certain categories of Pakistani citizens. India canceled it and ordered those individuals to leave the country within 48 hours.

What steps has India taken diplomatically after the attack?

India expelled Pakistani military and defense advisors from New Delhi and is withdrawing its own advisors from Islamabad. It is also reducing its High Commission staff in Pakistan.