India has officially downgraded diplomatic relations with Pakistan following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, including one Nepali national. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, met today and announced a series of strong retaliatory measures.
Key Measures Announced:
- Diplomatic Staff Cut: Both countries will reduce their High Commission staff strength from 55 to 30 by May 1.
- Military Attaches Expelled: Defence, naval, and air advisors at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared Persona Non Grata and must leave within a week. India will also withdraw its military advisors from Islamabad.
- Attari Check Post Closed: The Integrated Check Post at Attari, the only land border crossing, has been shut down immediately. Valid travelers may return by May 1.
- Indus Waters Treaty Suspended: The landmark 1960 treaty is being suspended until Pakistan “credibly and irreversibly” ends support for cross-border terrorism.
- SAARC Visa Exemptions Cancelled: Pakistani nationals are barred from traveling to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme; existing visas stand canceled.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who addressed the media, stated that the attack had confirmed cross-border links and that India is committed to holding the perpetrators and their sponsors accountable. He highlighted India’s resolve to act against terrorism, referencing the recent extradition of Tahawwur Rana.
Misri noted that the attack came at a time when Jammu and Kashmir was showing signs of political stability and economic progress, including successful elections.
The CCS expressed condolences to the victims’ families and appreciated the international community’s support and condemnation of the attack.
Pakistan’s Response: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will convene a National Security Committee meeting to determine Islamabad’s response to India’s diplomatic actions.
