India's Diplomatic Strike At Pakistan: Know What Big Decisions PM Modi-led CCS Made

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday convened a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack resulted in the deaths of 26 people. Home Minister Amit Shah briefed PM Modi on the situation during the meeting, which lasted over two-and-a-half hours at the Prime Minister's residence.

Government's Response to Attack

The CCS condemned the attack strongly and expressed condolences to the victims' families. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed media after the CCS meet and said that several measures have been decided upon due to the seriousness of the attack.

One significant decision was to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 until Pakistan ceases its support for cross-border terrorism.

Diplomatic Measures Announced

India has closed the Integrated Check Post Attari immediately. Those who crossed with valid endorsements can return by May 1, 2025. Additionally, Pakistani nationals will no longer be allowed to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES). Any SVES visas previously issued are now cancelled, and those currently in India must leave within 48 hours.

Reduction of Diplomatic Presence

The CCS declared Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors in Pakistan's High Commission in New Delhi as Persona Non Grata. They have a week to depart India. Similarly, India will withdraw its Defence/Navy/Air Advisors from Islamabad. These positions are annulled, and five support staff from both High Commissions will also be withdrawn.

Pakistan High Commission In New Delhi

The overall diplomatic staff strength at both High Commissions will be reduced from 55 to 30 by May 1, 2025. This reduction is part of India's strong response to the Pahalgam attack and aims to send a clear message regarding its stance on cross-border terrorism.

Misri highlighted that these decisions reflect India's firm position against terrorism and its commitment to ensuring national security.