NEW DELHI — In a stern diplomatic response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian embassy in Washington issued a strong statement justifying India’s decision to suspend the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. The embassy emphasized that ongoing cooperation is untenable with a nation that sponsors violence against civilians.
Citing Pakistan’s long-standing, state-supported terrorism, India said the trust and goodwill that once shaped the historic water-sharing agreement have been fundamentally undermined. The Indus Waters Treaty was established with the intention of fostering goodwill. That spirit no longer survives in the face of continued cross-border terrorism,” the statement read.
India formally notified Pakistan that the treaty would be put on hold, effective immediately. In a letter to his Pakistani counterpart, Jal Shakti Ministry Secretary Debashree Mukherjee stressed, “Treaty obligations must be honoured in good faith. Pakistan, however, has used terrorism as a tool against India, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.”
The move follows Pakistan’s warning that any attempt to divert water under the treaty would be considered an “act of war.” India, undeterred, announced sweeping countermeasures during a high-level Cabinet Committee on Security meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri detailed the immediate measures, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty until Pakistan ends its support for terrorism.
Closure of the Integrated Check Post at Attari, with travel limited to verified returnees until May 1, 2025
Cancellation of all SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme benefits for Pakistani nationals
Annulment of existing SPES visas, requiring current holders to exit India within 48 hours
In a diplomatic escalation, India has also expelled all Pakistani defence, naval, air, and military advisors from its High Commission, granting them one week to leave. India’s defence representatives in Islamabad will similarly be withdrawn.
The government’s message is clear: India will not uphold agreements with a country that continues to fuel violence and instability across its borders.
