On April 22, a deadly terror attack struck Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir, which India has directly attributed to Pakistan-backed militants. In retaliation, India has taken a series of strong measures — suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, cancelling visas granted to Pakistani nationals, closing the Attari check post, and significantly scaling down diplomatic presence at the Pakistan High Commission.
Here’s a look at all the major developments that have unfolded over the last three days since the attack.
1. Deadliest Attack in 25 Years
- At least 26 people, including one foreign tourist, were killed on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir.
- It is the deadliest terror attack in the region since 1999.
- The victims were targeted in Baisaran valley during peak tourist season.
2. Manhunt and Sketches Released
- Security agencies released sketches of three suspected terrorists: Asif Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha.
- Eyewitness inputs helped in sketching the suspects.
- One attacker was seen wielding an automatic weapon in images captured on-site.
3. Indian Response: Security and Diplomacy
- PM Modi rushed back to Delhi, chaired the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting.
- Home Minister Amit Shah also visited Kashmir.
- India vowed to punish the perpetrators “to the ends of the Earth.”
4. Suspension of Indus Waters Treaty
- India suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.
- The move is meant to pressure Pakistan to stop cross-border terrorism.
5. Visa Crackdown on Pakistan
- All Indian visas issued to Pakistani nationals have been revoked.
- SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) stands cancelled.
- Pakistanis must leave India by May 1. Medical visas valid till April 29 only.
6. Attari Check Post Shut
- India has closed the Attari Integrated Check Post.
- Only return travel for Pakistanis currently in India will be allowed until May 1.
7. Diplomatic Staff Downsized
- India and Pakistan will reduce High Commission staff from 55 to 30.
- Defence advisors of both countries have been declared persona non grata.
8. Pakistan Troops Violate Ceasefire
- Pakistani troops fired at Indian posts across the LoC two nights in a row.
- Indian Army retaliated to unprovoked firing.
9. India Gains Political Unity
- All-party meeting was held; Rahul Gandhi, Kharge backed Modi’s response.
- “We are united against terrorism,” said opposition leaders.
10. Pakistan Seeks ‘Neutral Probe’
- PM Shehbaz Sharif and Defence Minister Asif said Pakistan is open to an international investigation.
- Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s forces are “fully prepared” to defend sovereignty.
11. Mumbai on High Alert
- Mumbai Police enforced nakabandis and surprise checks.
- All zones instructed to increase vigilance amid national terror alert.
These developments signal one of the most serious escalations between India and Pakistan in recent years. Stay tuned for more updates.
