India Scraps Indus Water Treaty, Issues 48-Hour Deadline to Pakistan Nationals After Pahalgam Incident

Quick Summary

• Pahalgam Terror Attack: On April 22, 2025, 26 peopel, including one Nepali and six from Maharashtra, were killed in a terror attack at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam. the resistance Front (TRF), linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility.
• India’s Response: In a five-minute media briefing after a CCS meeting chaired by PM Modi:

– Indus Waters Treaty Suspended: The treaty will remain suspended until Pakistan ceases support for cross-border terrorism.
– attari Border Closed: Pakistani nationals with valid documents may return via this route before May 1; no new entries allowed.
– Visa Restrictions Imposed: SPES visas canceled; existing holders instructed to leave within 48 hours.
– Pakistani Defence Personnel Expelled: Military advisors at the Pakistani High Commission deemed persona non grata with one week to leave India.
– India’s Advisors Withdrawn from Islamabad: Indian military attachés recalled as diplomatic ties are scaled back.

• Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that these measures aim to maximize pressure on Pakistan while ensuring security preparedness.Global condemnation of the attack was acknowledged.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The decisive measures announced by India following the Pahalgam terror attack underline a strong and clear stance against cross-border terrorism. Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty signals potential economic and ecological repercussions for bilateral relations-a move that adds notable weight beyond immediate diplomatic retaliation. Likewise, expelling diplomats and imposing visa bans highlight an approach aimed at isolating Pakistan internationally.

While these steps indicate India’s resolve against acts of terrorism emanating across its borders, maintaining high vigilance will be crucial as heightened tensions could lead to additional challenges in regional stability. This also underscores India’s intention of leveraging its diplomatic channels and domestic policy tools comprehensively rather than resorting solely to military responses-a progress reflecting measured strategy amid grave circumstances.

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