India suspends visas for Pakistani nationals after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack. The MEA also advised Indian citizens to avoid travel to Pakistan. Learn about the latest updates and diplomatic developments here.
In a significant move amid rising tensions, the Indian government has suspended all visa services for Pakistani nationals with immediate effect. The decision comes in the aftermath of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 people, most of whom were Indian tourists.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the suspension on Thursday, stating that the decision was taken following a high-level Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting. As per the new directive, all existing Indian visas issued to Pakistani citizens will stand revoked from April 27, 2025. Additionally, medical visas will remain valid only until April 29, 2025, giving a limited grace period to those in India for treatment.
This bold measure is part of a broader set of actions India is undertaking in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which has been linked to Pakistan-based militant groups. The Kashmir Resistance, reportedly affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen, claimed responsibility for the assault.
The MEA also issued a strong advisory to Indian nationals, urging them not to travel to Pakistan. Furthermore, it has requested that any Indian citizens currently in Pakistan return to India at the earliest opportunity for their own safety.
“In light of the prevailing security situation and in continuation of the decisions made by the Cabinet Committee on Security, the Government of India has decided to suspend all visa services to Pakistani nationals with immediate effect,” the MEA’s statement said.
In addition to the visa suspension, India has reportedly taken other diplomatic and strategic steps, including the temporary closure of the Attari-Wagah border crossing and a review of the Indus Waters Treaty. Indian authorities have also hinted at reducing the number of staff at the High Commission in Islamabad.
Pakistan, meanwhile, has strongly objected to India’s decision, calling it politically motivated. In retaliation, Islamabad has suspended bilateral trade, shut down its airspace to Indian aircraft, and announced its withdrawal from several regional agreements, including the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme.
Tensions have soared across the region, with international communities urging both nations to show restraint. Global powers have expressed concern over the rapidly escalating situation and called for immediate diplomatic engagement to avoid further conflict.
This latest deterioration in India-Pakistan relations highlights the fragile peace between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. As both countries brace for potential geopolitical consequences, the international community is watching closely, hoping for de-escalation and a return to dialogue.
Also Read Previous : Pahalgam Terror Attack 2025: 26 Tourists Killed in Deadliest Kashmir Strike Since Pulwama.
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