India Hits Back After Pahalgam Attack: Indus Treaty Suspended, Attari Border Shut

In a major development following the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian government has announced five strong actions against Pakistan. On April 22, unidentified terrorists opened fire at tourists in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, killing 26 civilians and injuring many others. The attack has sent shockwaves across the country and sparked nationwide outrage.

The area, known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere, was packed with tourists at the time of the attack. According to eyewitnesses, the gunfire broke out suddenly, creating chaos and panic. Locals and security forces rushed to help the victims and control the situation. It is considered the worst terror attack in the region since Pulwama in 2019.

The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be a shadow organisation of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the assault. Jammu and Kashmir police have now announced a reward of ?20 lakh for any information that can help locate and neutralise the terrorists behind this inhuman act.

Reacting swiftly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia and returned to India. On Wednesday, he chaired a high-level Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting in Delhi. During the meeting, intelligence officials confirmed that the attack had strong cross-border links. The government, in a statement, said, “It was noted that this attack came in the wake of the successful holding of elections in the Union Territory and its steady progress towards economic growth and development.”

Following the CCS recommendations, the government declared five immediate actions:

1. Indus Waters Treaty Suspended

The treaty signed in 1960 for sharing river waters between India and Pakistan has been put on hold. This will remain suspended until Pakistan stops supporting cross-border terrorism in a complete and irreversible manner.

2. Attari Border Sealed

The Integrated Check Post at Attari, Punjab, has been closed. Only those with valid endorsements who had entered India may return before 1st May 2025.

3. SAARC Visa Cancelled for Pakistanis

No Pakistani national will be allowed to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. Visas already issued are considered cancelled. Pakistanis currently in India under this visa scheme have 48 hours to leave the country.

4. Expulsion of Military Advisors

India has asked Pakistan’s Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors to leave within a week. They have been declared Persona Non Grata. India will also withdraw its military advisors posted at the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Along with them, five support staff members will be called back as well.

5. Diplomatic Strength to be Reduced

The strength of diplomatic staff in both the High Commissions will be reduced from 55 to 30 by 1st May 2025. This move is aimed at minimising diplomatic engagement in the current scenario.

In the CCS meeting, the Prime Minister said, “As with the recent extradition of Tahawwur Rana, India will be unrelenting in the pursuit of those who have committed acts of terror or conspired to make them possible.”

Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah reached Srinagar and is personally monitoring the security arrangements. He is meeting with top officials to ensure the safety of locals and tourists in the region. An all-party meeting is also scheduled for Thursday to build consensus on national security matters.

The entire nation stands in solidarity with the families of those killed. Candlelight vigils and protests have erupted across various cities, demanding justice and tough measures. The brutal killing of innocent people in a tourist spot has once again exposed the face of terrorism backed by cross-border elements.

This attack has not only taken innocent lives but also tried to disturb peace in the valley. With India’s tough and clear response, the message is loud: terrorism will not be tolerated, and justice will be delivered swiftly.