🇮🇳 Pahalgam Terror Attack 2025: India Retaliates Strongly, Withdraws Military Attaches from Pakistan; SAARC Visas Cancelled

Pahalgam Terror Attack 2025: In the aftermath of the heart-wrenching Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives, India has taken a bold diplomatic and strategic stand. At the highest level of national security decision-making, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has rolled out a series of strong measures aimed directly at Pakistan.

What Happened in Pahalgam?

On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, the tranquil tourist haven of Pahalgam, often dubbed the “Mini Switzerland” of Kashmir, turned into a site of horror. A group of heavily armed terrorists opened fire indiscriminately at tourists in Baisaran meadows, killing 26 people and injuring several others.

Initial investigations have now confirmed that the terrorists were trained in Pakistan and received help from local militants. Among the identified attackers is Aadil Thokar, a known militant from Bijbehara.

The incident, being dubbed the deadliest since the 2019 Pulwama attack, has shaken the nation and the international community alike.

India’s Tough Response: Key Decisions by CCS

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which includes Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, met late Wednesday to assess the situation.

Here are the key decisions taken:

1. Military Attaches Withdrawn

India will withdraw all Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors from its High Commission in Islamabad. Their Pakistani counterparts in New Delhi have been declared Persona Non Grata and have one week to leave.

2. Indus Waters Treaty Suspended

India will suspend the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, a critical agreement on river water sharing, until Pakistan “credibly and irrevocably” halts support to cross-border terrorism.

3. SAARC Visa Exemption Cancelled

All SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) visas for Pakistani nationals have been cancelled. Anyone currently in India on such visas must leave within 48 hours.

4. Attari Border Check Post Closed

The Integrated Check Post at Attari has been closed with immediate effect. Any Pakistani national currently in India with valid endorsements has until May 1, 2025, to return.

5. High Commission Staff Reduced

The diplomatic strength at both High Commissions (New Delhi and Islamabad) will be reduced from 55 to 30 personnel by May 1, 2025.

Political and Public Outcry

Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called for an all-party meeting on Thursday. In a post on X, he emphasized unity in the face of this national tragedy.

Meanwhile, global leaders including Australian PM Anthony Albanese, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, and former US President Donald Trump have strongly condemned the attack. Trump personally called PM Modi to express his condolences and support.

₹20 Lakh Bounty on Terrorists

The Anantnag Police has announced a ₹20 lakh reward for any information that leads to the neutralization of the terrorists responsible. Authorities assure that the identity of informants will remain strictly confidential.

🇮🇳 Nation Stands United

As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, India’s resolve to fight terrorism has only strengthened. The CCS has directed all security forces to maintain high alert and ensure swift justice for the victims.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated, “The perpetrators of this heinous act will see a response that is loud, clear, and unforgettable.”

Final Thoughts

The attack in Pahalgam is not just a tragedy — it is a test of national resilience. With bold diplomatic retaliation, strict internal measures, and a united political front, India is sending a loud message: terror will not go unanswered.

As the Valley heals and the nation remembers the victims, we stand strong — in grief, in unity, and in resolve.