New Delhi, Apr 23: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was convened on Wednesday evening to address the aftermath of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on Tuesday, April 22.

The attack claimed the lives of 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national, leaving several others injured. The CCS strongly condemned the attack and extended heartfelt condolences to the victims' families while wishing a speedy recovery for the injured.

The CCS acknowledged the global outpouring of support and solidarity, with many governments unequivocally condemning the attack. These sentiments, the CCS noted, reflect a shared commitment to zero tolerance for terrorism.

During the briefing, the cross-border linkages of the attack were highlighted. The CCS observed that the incident occurred amidst the Union Territory's successful elections and its steady progress toward economic development.

In response to the attack, the CCS announced a series of stringent measures:

Indus Waters Treaty Suspended: The 1960 treaty will be held in abeyance with immediate effect, until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism.

Closure of Integrated Check Post Attari: Effective immediately, the check post will be closed, and those who have crossed over with valid endorsements have been ordered to return through that route before May 1.

SAARC Visa Exemption Revoked: Pakistani nationals are barred from traveling to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES). Existing visas are cancelled, and current holders have 48 hours to leave India.

Diplomatic Reductions: The Defence/Military, Naval and Air Advisors in the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi are declared Persona Non Grata and must leave within a week. India will reciprocally withdraw its advisors from Islamabad. These posts in the respective High Commissions are deemed annulled. Five support staff of the Service Advisors will also be withdrawn from both High Commissions. Both High Commissions will reduce their staff strength to 30 from the present 55 by May 1.

Heightened Vigilance: Security forces have been directed to maintain high alert across the country.

The CCS resolved to bring the perpetrators and their sponsors to justice, reaffirming India's commitment to combating terrorism. The government emphasized its determination to pursue those responsible, as demonstrated by the recent extradition of Tahawwur Rana.

read more National news