India has taken firm action against Pakistan following the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, many of whom were tourists. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has now formally revoked all valid visas issued to Pakistani nationals, effective from 27 April.
In a clear message, the government said that all Pakistanis currently in India must leave before their visas expire. Medical visas, which are often granted for specialised treatment in Indian hospitals, will only remain valid until 29 April.
India has also issued an advisory asking its citizens to avoid travelling to Pakistan. Those already in the neighbouring country have been urged to return home without delay.
These moves come on the heels of one of the most tragic terror incidents in recent memory. The Indian government believes that the attack had clear cross-border links. In response, India has announced a temporary suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a major agreement that governs water-sharing between the two countries.
Diplomatic Shake-Up
The MEA has also taken strong diplomatic steps. Pakistani diplomats stationed in India have been asked to leave, while Indian officials posted at the High Commission in Islamabad are being recalled.
Further isolating Pakistan, India has ordered the closure of the Attari-Wagah land border in Punjab, which was one of the few remaining cross-points for travel and trade between the two nations.
High Alert Across the Country
At a recent press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) met to assess the situation and directed all security agencies to stay on high alert.
India has received support from several nations in the wake of the attack, Misri noted, adding that New Delhi will hold those behind the violence — and those supporting them, accountable. He referenced the recent extradition of Tahawwur Rana as a sign that India will continue pursuing justice against anyone involved in terrorism, directly or indirectly.
