India Takes 7 Major Steps Against Pakistan in Response to Pahalgam Terror Attack

   India has implemented seven measures against Pakistan in response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which resulted in 26 fatalities. Following discussions on cross-border linkages to the attack, the government announced five measures yesterday and two additional actions today.    

     Here are some potential steps India might consider after a terrorist attack linked to Pakistan:

   1. India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 with immediate effect. The government said it will remain suspended unless Pakistan credibly and irrevocably stops support for cross-border terrorism.

     The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, governs the sharing of the Indus River's waters between India and Pakistan. Suspending the treaty is a significant move, highlighting the complex relationship between the two countries. The treaty's suspension could have implications for water security and cooperation in the region.

      2. The integrated check post Attari was closed on Wednesday. People who crossed over with endorsements are allowed to return through that route before May 1.

      3. The government revoked the privilege of Pakistani nationals to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme visas. Previously issued SVES visas to Pakistani nationals were cancelled. Furthermore, all Pakistani citizens holding SVES visas were instructed to depart India within 48 hours.

        The SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) allowed citizens of SAARC countries, including Pakistan, to travel to India without a visa. Canceling these visas and restricting travel could impact various groups, such as:

- Travelers and tourists

- Businesspeople and traders

- Students and researchers

- Family members and friends separated by borders

This decision might be part of broader efforts to adjust diplomatic relations and security measures between India and Pakistan.

    4. The Pakistani High Commission's defence, naval, and air advisors in New Delhi were declared persona non grata and given a week to depart India. India also announced the withdrawal of its defence staff from Islamabad's Indian High Commission.

       Declaring diplomats "persona non grata" is a significant diplomatic measure, often used to expel individuals deemed unacceptable or whose presence is considered prejudicial to the host country's interests. This decision, coupled with the withdrawal of defence staff, indicates a substantial escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan.

         5. India announced plans to decrease the overall strength of the High Commissions from 55 to 30 through additional reductions, to be implemented by May 1.

          6. The government announced the immediate suspension of visa services for Pakistani nationals today. Pakistani nationals are instructed to leave India by April 27, although medical visa holders may remain until April 29.

           The Indian government has indeed suspended visa services for Pakistani nationals with immediate effect. Here are the key details:

- Visa Suspension: All existing valid visas issued to Pakistani nationals will be revoked starting April 27, 2025.

- Medical Visas: Pakistani nationals holding medical visas can stay in India until April 29, 2025, after which they'll need to leave.

- Departure Deadline: All Pakistani nationals in India are required to exit the country before their visa expires or the designated deadline.

- SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES): Visas issued under this scheme have been canceled, and Pakistani nationals holding these visas were given 48 hours to leave India.

Additionally, the Indian government has advised its nationals to avoid traveling to Pakistan and to return to India at the earliest if they're currently in Pakistan. The suspension of visa services is part of a broader set of measures taken in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

         7. The Border Security Force (BSF) implemented a measured decision to scale down the ceremonial display during the Retreat Ceremony at Attari, Hussainiwala, and Sadki in Punjab. Key modifications include suspension of the symbolic handshake between the Indian Guard Commander and the counterpart Guard Commander. The gates will remain closed during the ceremony. This measure highlights India's serious concern over cross-border hostilities and reaffirms that peace and provocation cannot coexist, the BSF stated.

          These measures would depend on India's analysis of the situation and its strategic priorities.

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