India announced a series of strong measures on Wednesday in response to “cross-border terrorism” and the recent Pahalgam attack. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that, effective immediately, the Indus Waters Treaty will be “kept in abeyance until Pakistan stops supporting terrorism”. He also announced the closure of the Attari–Wagah border crossing, which will remain shut until the security situation is reviewed.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, “Recognising the seriousness of this terrorist attack, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) decided upon the following measures- The Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 will be held in abeyance with immediate effect until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism.”
He confirmed that all SAARC visas held by Pakistani nationals are cancelled and that these visa holders must depart India within 48 hours. He added that the defence, military, naval, and air advisors attached to Pakistan’s High Commission in New Delhi have been declared persona non grata and have one week to leave the country.
“Pakistani nationals will not be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC visa Exemption scheme. Any SPES visas issued in the past to Pakistani nationals are deemed cancelled. Any Pakistani national currently in India under SPES visa has 48 hours to leave India.”
India is withdrawing its defence advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and will also recall five support staff members from the service advisors in both missions. By May 1, the overall strength of both Indian and Pakistani diplomatic missions will be reduced from 55 to 30 members.
“These steps are necessary to protect our national security and respond decisively to terrorism,” he said.
Read more: Deadly Attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam Leaves 27 Dead, Several Injured
