Visa Suspension and Deportations
In a strong diplomatic move, India has suspended all visas issued to Pakistani nationals and ordered the deportation of any Pakistani citizens currently residing in the country. Only those on medical visas have been granted a grace period until April 29 to leave. This decision was taken in direct response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
Indus Waters Treaty Suspension
India has formally begun the process of suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, a water-sharing agreement that has existed between the two countries since the 1960s. The Indian Cabinet Committee on Security approved this action as part of its response to the Pahalgam attack. Pakistan has been officially notified of this move.
Retaliatory Measures and Border Closures
Apart from diplomatic actions, India has shut down the Attari land border crossing and warned its citizens against traveling to Pakistan. In retaliation, Pakistan closed the Wagah border crossing and heightened its security posture. These actions indicate growing hostilities and a potential escalation.
Background of the Incident
The catalyst for these moves was a terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, located in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The attack targeted Hindu tourists at Baisaran meadow, resulting in the deaths of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali, with many others injured.
Official Reactions
India’s Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level security meeting, leading to orders for all states to identify and deport Pakistani nationals. On the other side, Pakistan’s National Security Committee condemned India’s accusations and warned that any attempt to block water flow would be seen as an act of war. The Pakistani Senate also unanimously rejected India’s claims, calling them politically motivated.
