India’s Five Major Moves Against Pakistan One Month After the Pahalgam Terror Attack

It has been one month since the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians lost their lives in a brutal assault that shook the nation. In response, the Indian government has taken a series of strong and unprecedented measures aimed at pressuring Pakistan to end its alleged support for terrorism against India. Here are the five key steps India has implemented in the aftermath of the attack:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook several significant measures against Pakistan to hold it accountable for its support of cross-border terrorism. (ANI file) | Hindustan Times

1. Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty

In a historic and bold decision, India suspended its obligations under the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. This treaty had long governed water sharing between the two countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that Pakistan would no longer receive water from rivers over which India has rights. The move is designed to exert maximum diplomatic and economic pressure on Pakistan, signaling that India will not tolerate acts of terror and cross-border aggression.

2. Diplomatic and Military Retaliation

India has taken steps to reduce diplomatic ties with Pakistan drastically. The country expelled Pakistani military advisers from its High Commission in New Delhi, while Indian military advisers were recalled from Pakistan. The Indian High Commission in Islamabad has also downsized its staff, reducing personnel from 55 to 30. These actions reflect India’s deep displeasure with Pakistan’s alleged backing of terrorist groups and aim to curtail intelligence cooperation and military liaison.

3. Revocation of Visas and Travel Restrictions

All visas previously issued to Pakistani nationals have been revoked by India, accompanied by a comprehensive travel ban under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Visa Exemption Scheme. This move curbs people-to-people contact and aims to prevent any security threats stemming from visa misuse, demonstrating India’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism.

4. Closure of the Attari–Wagah Border Crossing

One of the most symbolic steps taken by India was the closure of the Attari–Wagah border, the primary land route for trade and travel between India and Pakistan. This closure disrupts economic ties and serves as a strong signal to Pakistan about the consequences of continuing support for terror activities. The border closure remains in effect as both countries navigate the tense post-attack atmosphere.

5. Launch of Operation Sindoor

In a targeted military escalation, India launched Operation Sindoor, striking terrorist camps and infrastructure inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation aims to dismantle terror networks responsible for the Pahalgam attack and deter future militant activities. Indian security forces emphasized precision to avoid civilian casualties, marking a significant shift in India’s approach to counter-terrorism.

Conclusion

A month after the Pahalgam terror attack, India’s decisive and multifaceted response reflects a new phase of assertive policy against cross-border terrorism. By combining diplomatic, economic, and military measures, India has sent a clear and unambiguous message that it will not tolerate acts of terror or any support to terror outfits from across its borders. While challenges remain, these strong steps aim to safeguard national security and uphold India’s sovereignty, setting a firm precedent for future engagements with Pakistan.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, Economic Times, Reuters)