Indus Water Treaty Suspended, Attari Border Shut: India's Response to Deadly J&K Terror Attack

In a sweeping response to the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that left 26 people dead, India has announced a series of diplomatic and strategic measures aimed squarely at Pakistan. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) framed the actions as a firm stand against “cross-border terrorism”, as tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours continue to escalate.

The announcements followed a high-level Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which lasted two and a half hours. The meeting was attended by key figures including Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty

In a move with far-reaching implications, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a landmark agreement that has endured three wars since its signing in 1960. The treaty allows approximately 39 billion cubic metres of water from the Indus river system to flow annually from India into Pakistan.

Calling it a “symbol of goodwill that has been consistently undermined by hostility”, the MEA stated that cooperation under the treaty would remain halted until further notice.

Closure of the Attari-Wagah Border

The government has also announced the immediate shutdown of the Integrated Check Post at the Attari-Wagah border – a vital hub for trade and people-to-people exchanges. Pakistani nationals who have crossed into India using valid documentation have been asked to return by 1 May 2025.

Officials confirmed the closure is indefinite and part of broader efforts to “dismantle platforms that facilitate hostile engagement.”

SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme Suspended for Pakistan

India has revoked all existing visas issued to Pakistani nationals under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. Those already present in India have been instructed to leave within 48 hours.


Expulsion of Military Advisers

New Delhi has declared the Defence, Naval, and Air Advisers at the Pakistani High Commission as persona non grata. The individuals have been given one week to exit the country. In a reciprocal move, India will withdraw its own military attachés from its High Commission in Islamabad.

Reduction of Diplomatic Staff

India has directed Pakistan to scale down its diplomatic presence in New Delhi, cutting the staff strength at its High Commission from 55 to just 30. The reduction is aimed at minimising backchannel activities and potential intelligence operations under diplomatic cover.​