In a further escalation of its response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has revoked the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) benefits for all Pakistani nationals. Effective immediately, Pakistani citizens will no longer be permitted to travel to India under the SVES, and any SVES visas already issued are now deemed cancelled.
In a strong message, the Indian government has also directed all Pakistani nationals currently in India under the SVES visa scheme to leave the country within 48 hours. The decision is part of a broader set of measures targeting cross-border terrorism and is aimed at dismantling any potential misuse of diplomatic or regional agreements.
The CCS observed that the Pahalgam attack, which resulted in 26 deaths including one Nepali citizen, showed signs of cross-border planning and coordination. In light of this, the cancellation of SVES visas is intended to strengthen domestic security and minimize entry-related vulnerabilities.
This move comes alongside the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the closure of the Attari ICP, highlighting India’s commitment to respond decisively to acts of terror.
Up next: India expels Pakistani military advisors from New Delhi.
