In a major diplomatic escalation, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and imposed a 48-hour deadline for Pakistani nationals to exit the country, following a deadly terrorist attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) that claimed the lives of at least 26 tourists.
The announcement came after a high-level meeting of India’s Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by top national security officials. Indian diplomat Vikram Misri addressed the media, outlining five major steps India is taking in response to what it calls “cross-border terrorism.”
Key Decisions Announced by India:
- Indus Waters Treaty Suspended:
The historic Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, a key water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan, has suspended “with immediate effect.” India has demanded credible assurances from Pakistan to renounce terrorism before any reconsideration of the treaty. - SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme Cancelled:
India has revoked all SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) visas for Pakistani nationals. All Pakistanis currently in India under this scheme required to leave within 48 hours. - Closure of Attari-Wagah Border Check Post:
The Attari-Wagah Integrated Check Post has closed. However, individuals who previously entered India with valid documents have until May 1, 2025, to exit. - Expulsion of Military Advisors:
All Pakistani military, naval, and air advisors stationed in India have declared persona non grata and ordered to leave within one week. In a reciprocal move, India will also withdraw its defence advisors from Islamabad. - Reduction in Diplomatic Staff:
Both countries will reduce diplomatic staff in their respective High Commissions. The number of personnel will cut from 55 to 30 members, effective May 1, 2025.
Tensions Between India and Pakistan Reach New Heights
These actions represent a dramatic shift in India-Pakistan relations, marking the most serious deterioration in years. The Indus Waters Treaty, long viewed as a symbol of cooperation despite hostilities, has never before suspended since its signing in 1960.
India’s decision is being as a direct response to the recent attack in IIOJK, which New Delhi has blamed on Pakistan-based militants. Islamabad has yet to officially respond to the Indian government’s sweeping actions.
Diplomatic Fallout and Global Concern
The international community is expected to closely monitor the situation, given the nuclear capabilities of both nations and the potential humanitarian consequences of these aggressive measures.
The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, in particular, could have wide-ranging implications for water security in the region, while the forced departure of Pakistani nationals adds a humanitarian dimension to the ongoing diplomatic standoff.
 and imposed a 48-hour deadline for Pakistani nationals to exit the country, following a deadly terrorist attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) that claimed the lives of at least 26 tourists.){kind=link}