India has taken firm action against Pakistan after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The government summoned Pakistan’s top diplomat in New Delhi, Saad Ahmad Warraich. It handed him a Persona Non Grata notice for Pakistan’s military diplomats. As a result, these officials must leave India within a week.
Attack on Tourists Triggers Response
On Tuesday, terrorists attacked a group of tourists in Pahalgam. They killed 26 people and injured many more. Consequently, the Indian government decided to act strongly.
India Announces Strong Measures
On Wednesday, April 23, India announced several tough steps. The Foreign Ministry described it as a “decisive response to cross-border terrorism.”
Furthermore, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. This agreement, signed in 1960, governs how both countries share water from the Indus River.
Vikram Misri Addresses the Nation
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri criticized Pakistan sharply. He said Pakistan uses terrorism as a tool in its foreign policy. Moreover, he confirmed cross-border links to the Pahalgam attack.
He stated, “The Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 will be held in abeyance with immediate effect, until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism.”
Additionally, Misri announced the expulsion of military diplomats. He said, “The Defence/Military, Naval and Air Advisors in the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi are declared Persona Non Grata. They have a week to leave India. India will be withdrawing its own Defence/Navy/Air Advisors from the Indian High Commission in 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 Five support staff of the Service Advisors will also be withdrawn from both High Commissions.”
Defence Minister Vows Action
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh gave a strong warning. He promised quick and firm action against those responsible.
He said, “There would be a swift response against those who carried out, planned, or were involved ‘behind the scenes’ in the worst civilian attack in Kashmir in years.”
Army Launches Hunt for Attackers
At the same time, the Indian Army and police began a major search operation. They are now scanning the hills of Pahalgam to find the terrorists behind the attack.
Victims Share Painful Stories
Survivors revealed horrifying details. They said the terrorists checked ID cards. Then, they asked men to recite Islamic verses and shot those who couldn’t.
For instance, Asavari Jagdale from Maharashtra said she lost her father and uncle. According to her, her family and other tourists hid in a nearby tent when the gunfire started.