By The Sampadak Express
In a strong retaliatory response to the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that claimed 26 lives, India has unveiled a set of seven key measures targeting Pakistan. The decisions, taken over two days, reflect India’s firm resolve to hold those responsible accountable and to counter cross-border terrorism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation, vowed to “identify, track, and punish” all those involved in the carnage, including their “backers,” and said India will pursue them to the “ends of the earth.”
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by the Prime Minister, met a day after the attack and finalized five strategic actions. Two more decisions were announced on Thursday, intensifying India’s diplomatic and security push.
Here are the seven decisions India has taken:
1. Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty:
India announced it would suspend the decades-old Indus Waters Treaty, a crucial water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan brokered by the World Bank in 1960. The treaty governs the distribution of the Indus river system, vital for both nations. The suspension will remain unless Pakistan verifiably ends support for cross-border terrorism.
2. Expulsion of Pakistani Military Diplomats:
India has expelled three Pakistani military attaches and directed Pakistan to reduce its high commission staff in New Delhi from 55 to 30 personnel.
3. Revocation of SAARC Visa Exemptions:
Pakistani nationals will no longer be allowed to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES). Those currently in India under this scheme have been given 48 hours to leave.
4. Closure of Integrated Check Post at Attari:
India has shut down the only operational land border crossing with Pakistan at Attari. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that individuals with valid endorsements who have already crossed may return through the same route before May 1.
5. Withdrawal of Military Advisors:
India has declared Pakistan’s defence, naval, and air advisors in New Delhi persona non grata, giving them a week to leave. Simultaneously, India will withdraw its own military advisors from its high commission in Islamabad.
6. Suspension of Visa Services:
India has suspended all visa services for Pakistani nationals with immediate effect. All existing valid visas stand revoked from April 27. Medical visas will remain valid only till April 29. All Pakistani nationals currently in India have been asked to leave before their visa expiry.
7. Curtailment of Border Retreat Ceremony:
The Border Security Force has scaled down the daily retreat ceremony at Attari, Hussainiwala, and Sadki border points in Punjab. The ceremonial flag-lowering event, a major tourist attraction since 1959, will now be held with limited public presence.
These measures underscore India’s resolve to take firm and sustained action against cross-border terrorism. The government has indicated that further steps may follow if the situation demands.
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