The diplomatic measures announced by India’s Cabinet Committee on Security on Wednesday, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, reflect a calibrated strategy that signals the possibility of stronger actions if necessary. Among the steps taken are the cancellation of visas issued to Pakistani nationals, suspension of consular services, and the closure of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari. These moves send a clear message that India seeks to minimize engagement with Pakistan unless absolutely required.
Similar actions were observed after past terror incidents, such as the Pulwama attack in 2019. This time, India has also decided to place the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in suspension until Pakistan takes credible action against terror networks. This will reinforce earlier steps like halting meetings of the Permanent Commission on water sharing, stopping Pakistani inspections of Indian sites, and continuing work on hydropower and desilting projects despite Pakistan’s objections.
Rather than addressing India’s legitimate concerns or investigating the attack—which was claimed by The Resistance Force (TRF), a front for the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)—Pakistan has chosen to retaliate diplomatically. It has revoked Indian visas, reduced diplomatic staff, shut down trade ties, and threatened to withdraw from other agreements, notably the 1972 Simla Agreement, which had formalized the Line of Control and restricted third-party intervention on Kashmir.
Additionally, Pakistan has issued warnings that any disruption in water flows under the Indus Waters Treaty would be viewed as an “Act of War,” and hinted at retaliatory strikes should India conduct any military operations impacting Pakistani civilians.
These developments suggest that tensions are on a dangerous trajectory, with the possibility of a military standoff looming. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks at a rally in Bihar, promising retribution “beyond imagination,” underscore the seriousness of the situation.
Meanwhile, India is actively engaging the international community: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has been briefing foreign diplomats, and senior Ministers have updated Opposition leaders about the cross-border terror links. With the current global sentiment against terror attacks on civilians, and an understanding of India’s position, countries like the United States are unlikely to pressure New Delhi to hold back its responses.
As India prepares for its next steps, it remains critical to keep key stakeholders, including the administration in Jammu and Kashmir, informed and involved. For Pakistan, the window to de-escalate remains open. By acting decisively against terror groups operating from its soil, Pakistan could still avoid further confrontation and serious consequences.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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