India Considers Revisiting Indus Water Treaty After Pahalgam Incident

Quick Summary

• India suspended the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, including one Nepali citizen.
• The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by PM Narendra modi, strongly condemned the attack and announced measures targeting Pakistan for its alleged support of terrorism.
• Key decisions include shutting the Attari Border, expelling Pakistani defense personnel from India, recalling Indian military attachés from Islamabad, and limiting High Commission staff strength to 30 from both sides.
• SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme visas issued to Pakistani nationals have been canceled; those currently in India with these visas must leave within 48 hours.
• Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stressed that Pakistan must abjure cross-border terrorism credibly for any reconsideration of these steps.

Indian Opinion Analysis
India’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty marks a important escalation in diplomatic pressure aimed at deterring state-sponsored terrorism allegedly originating in Pakistan. While major infrastructure changes involving water resources could take time to materialize effectively, such a move sends a strong political message-India prioritizes national security over bilateral agreements when faced with threats like the Pahalgam terror attack.

The CCS meeting outcomes reflect India’s resolve by employing a multi-pronged strategy: restricting movement across borders, reducing diplomatic engagement, and consolidating international support against terrorism as evidenced by global condemnation of this incident.However, these measures also risk further destabilizing regional ties and may require sustained efforts to manage potential humanitarian or geopolitical consequences for affected populations on both sides.

For more details: Read More