India Takes Strong Retaliatory Measures Against Pakistan Following Pahalgam Terror Attack
April 24, 2025
In a decisive response to Tuesday’s horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives—mostly tourists—the Indian government has announced five major punitive actions against Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who cut short his state visit to Saudi Arabia, chaired an urgent meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to approve these measures.
Key Actions Against Pakistan
- Suspension of Indus Waters Treaty
- The 1960 water-sharing agreement has been put on hold indefinitely until Pakistan demonstrates “credible and irrevocable” action against cross-border terrorism.
- This move could significantly impact Pakistan’s water supply, as the treaty governs the distribution of water from the Indus River system.
- Closure of Attari Border Checkpoint
- The Attari-Wagah Integrated Check Post (ICP) will shut immediately.
- Those with valid visas may return via this route only until May 1, 2025.
- Cancellation of SAARC Visa Exemption for Pakistanis
- All SVES (SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme) visas for Pakistani nationals stand canceled.
- Any Pakistani in India under this visa must leave within 48 hours.
- Expulsion of Pakistani Defense Advisors
- Pakistan’s military, naval, and air advisors in New Delhi have been declared persona non grata and must exit India within a week.
- India will withdraw its own defense advisors from Islamabad, effectively ending military diplomatic exchanges.
- Reduction in High Commission Staff
- Both countries’ diplomatic missions will be downsized from 55 to 30 personnel by May 1, 2025.
Why These Measures?
The CCS highlighted that the Pahalgam attack was linked to cross-border terrorism, coming just after successful elections in Jammu & Kashmir and during its economic recovery. The government stated that Pakistan’s inaction against terror groups necessitated a strong response.
What’s Next?
These actions mark a significant escalation in India-Pakistan tensions. Experts suggest that:
- The Indus Treaty suspension could lead to water disputes.
- The Attari border closure may disrupt trade and pilgrim travel.
- The diplomatic downsizing signals a freeze in bilateral relations.
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