India revokes Pakistani visas following Kashmir attack

Thursday 24 April 2025 - 15:36

By: Zahouani Ilham

India revokes Pakistani visas following Kashmir attack

India has annulled all visas previously granted to Pakistani citizens in the aftermath of a fatal assault in the Kashmir region that claimed the lives of 26 individuals, the majority of whom were Indian tourists visiting the scenic town of Pahalgam.

The attack, which occurred in the Indian-administered section of Kashmir a territory contested by both India and Pakistan has intensified diplomatic tensions between the two nuclear powers. In retaliation, India shut down a key border crossing, put a water-sharing agreement on hold, and reduced diplomatic engagement with Pakistan, which it accuses of being connected to the incident.

Although New Delhi has not made any public presentation of proof linking Pakistan directly to the assault, it maintains that the attackers had “cross-border” ties. Islamabad has firmly rejected any involvement, while a little-known group identifying itself as "Kashmir Resistance" has claimed responsibility.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs announced on Thursday that all visas for Pakistani nationals would be cancelled starting Sunday. Indian citizens have also been cautioned against traveling to Pakistan.

This visa revocation is part of a broader escalation. Islamabad has warned that any move by India to interrupt the flow of water under the Indus Waters Treaty would be treated as an “act of war.”

Speaking at a rally in Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to pursue the perpetrators relentlessly. “India will find, follow, and punish all terrorists and their supporters,” he said. “Our resolve is unshakable, and terrorism will not prevail.”

Meanwhile, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a National Security Committee meeting to address India’s measures. He later warned that any diversion of Pakistan's water rights would be met with a strong and decisive response.