India Takes Strong Steps After Pahalgam Terror Attack, CCS Meeting: Indus Waters Treaty Suspended, SAARC Visa Ban for Pakistan, India to Reduce Diplomatic Staff, Shut Attari Check Post in Response to Attack

In the wake of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi. Source : @narendramodi.

Dated 23rd April 2025

News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid

Editor in Chief

New Delhi | 23 April 2025 | In a late-hour press briefing, Foreign Secretary Mr. Vikram Misri shared details about important decisions taken by the Government of India after the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) met under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to review the situation and take action.

The terror attack, which happened on 22nd April in Pahalgam, claimed the lives of 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national. Many others were injured. The CCS strongly condemned the attack and expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims. The Government also thanked various countries that showed their support and condemned the attack.

Foreign Secretary Mr. Vikram Misri said that the attack had clear cross-border links. He said this violent act comes at a time when the Union Territory is moving forward with successful elections and development.

As a response to the attack, the CCS has taken the following important decisions:

1. Indus Waters Treaty Suspended: India has decided to keep the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 on hold. This suspension will remain until Pakistan clearly stops supporting terrorism across the border.
2. Attari Check Post Closed: The Integrated Check Post at Attari will be closed immediately. Only those who have valid travel endorsements can return through this post till 1st May 2025.
3. SAARC Visa Cancelled for Pakistan: Pakistani citizens will no longer be allowed to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. Any visa already issued under this scheme is cancelled. Pakistanis in India under this scheme must leave within 48 hours.
4. Military Advisors Declared Persona Non Grata: Military, naval, and air advisors at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared persona non grata and must leave India within a week. India will also withdraw its own military advisors from Islamabad. Their posts are now annulled.
5. Diplomatic Staff Reduced: The total number of diplomatic staff in both countries’ High Commissions will be reduced to 30 (from the current 55) by 1st May 2025.

The CCS also reviewed India’s internal security and directed all forces to stay alert. The Foreign Secretary said India will not rest until the perpetrators and their sponsors are punished. He added that just like the recent extradition of Tahawwur Rana, India will continue to act strongly against those who plan or support terrorism.

Mr. Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson and Mr. M. Anand Prakash, Joint Secretary (PAI) in the Ministry of External Affairs were present during the press briefing.

The Government has made it clear that it stands firm against terror and will take all necessary steps to protect the nation.

These strong and serious steps by the Government of India show that the country will not tolerate terrorism in any form. The message is clear — those who support or carry out terrorist activities will face strict action. India has also shown that it values peace but will always act firmly to protect its people and national security.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Strongly Condemns Terror Attack in Pahalgam

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the terror attack that took place in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. In a message posted on social media platform X, the Prime Minister expressed deep sorrow and support for the victims.

He said, “I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the fast recovery of all those who are injured. All help is being given to the affected people.”

The Prime Minister also gave a strong message to the attackers. He said, “Those behind this cruel and cowardly act will be punished. They will not be spared. Their evil plans will never succeed.”

PM Modi assured the country that India’s fight against terrorism will continue with full strength. “Our commitment to end terrorism is strong and will become even stronger,” he said.

Sonia Gandhi Strongly Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Offers Deep Condolences to Victims

Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi | File Picture

Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi has expressed deep sadness and shock over the terrorist attack on innocent tourists in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir.

In her statement, she said, “I am deeply saddened and devastated to hear about the cowardly terror attack. Such violence is an act of cowardice and must be condemned strongly.

Sonia Gandhi extended her heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and said she understands their pain and grief. She also wished a quick and full recovery for those who were injured in the attack.

She said, “The whole country is united in the fight against terrorism. We must all come together to defeat such violent and divisive forces.”

She also emphasized the need to build a strong social unity like in the past to fight against terror and stressed that it is very important to ensure the safety of citizens and restore peace in the region.

Images Source : Indian National Congress FB.

Rahul Gandhi Speaks to Leaders on Pahalgam Terror Attack, Demands Justice for Victims

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and senior Congress leader Shri Rahul Gandhi | File Picture.

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and senior Congress leader Shri Rahul Gandhi has expressed concern over the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

In a message on social media platform X, Rahul Gandhi said he had spoken with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and J&K Congress President Tariq Karra to get updates about the tragic incident.

Rahul Gandhi said, “I spoke with leaders and got information about the situation. The families of the victims deserve justice and our full support.”

He expressed solidarity with the families affected by the attack and called for strong action and justice for those who lost their loved ones.

Congress General Secretary (Organization) Mr. K C Venugopal paid tribute to the people who lost their lives in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Images Source : Indian National Congress FB.