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In the wake of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, India has initiated a series of stringent measures aimed at addressing the escalating tensions with Pakistan. The government’s actions include the expulsion of Pakistani nationals residing in India and the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a significant bilateral agreement between the two nations.
Expulsion of Pakistani Nationals
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed all states and union territories to identify and ensure the departure of Pakistani nationals holding specific visa categories. This directive encompasses various visa types, including business, film, journalist, transit, conference, mountaineering, student, visitor, group tourist, and pilgrim visas. Pakistani nationals on medical visas have been given until April 29 to leave the country. The Ministry of Home Affairs has emphasized strict adherence to these orders, with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Bureau of Immigration tasked with ensuring effective implementation.
Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
In a significant diplomatic move, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a water-distribution agreement signed in 1960, which governs the use of waters from the Indus River and its tributaries. This suspension halts data sharing and potentially allows India to increase its usage of water from the western rivers, impacting Pakistan’s water supply and agriculture.
Escalation of India-Pakistan Tensions
The Pahalgam attack has intensified tensions between India and Pakistan. India has accused Pakistan-based groups of orchestrating the attack, leading to a series of retaliatory measures, including the closure of the Attari-Wagah border and the revocation of visas for Pakistani nationals. In response, Pakistan has denied involvement, closed its airspace to Indian flights, and suspended trade relations. Additionally, exchanges of gunfire have been reported along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, marking a significant escalation in hostilities.
International Reactions and Calls for Restraint
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions. Pakistan’s Defence Minister has called for an international investigation into the Pahalgam attack, asserting Pakistan’s willingness to cooperate with global investigators. Meanwhile, the United Nations has urged both nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully.
Domestic Implications in India
Within India, the attack has sparked nationwide outrage and grief. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, emphasizing the government’s commitment to national security. The incident has also led to increased security measures across the country and heightened vigilance in sensitive regions.
Conclusion
The Pahalgam terror attack has significantly impacted India-Pakistan relations, leading to the expulsion of Pakistani nationals from India and the suspension of a critical bilateral treaty. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely, hoping for a de-escalation of tensions and a return to diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
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