In a decisive move following the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives including one Nepali citizen, the Government of India has suspended all visa services to Pakistani nationals, effective immediately.
However, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that Long Term Visas (LTVs) already issued to Hindu Pakistani nationals remain valid despite the blanket visa suspension.
“It is hereby clarified that the revocation of visas specified in the above decision does not apply to the Long Term Visas (LTVs) already issued to Hindu Pakistani nationals, which remain valid,” the MEA said in a press release on Thursday.
🚨 Key Measures Announced by India:
- All valid visas for Pakistani nationals revoked from 27 April 2025, except:
- Medical visas, which remain valid until 29 April 2025.
- LTVs for Hindu Pakistani nationals, which remain unaffected.
- Pakistani nationals in India must exit before their amended visa expiry.
- Indian citizens in Pakistan advised to return at the earliest.
- Indian citizens strongly discouraged from traveling to Pakistan.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, met on Wednesday to outline a comprehensive national response to the Pahalgam attack. The meeting, attended by Home Minister Amit Shah and top officials, resulted in a series of diplomatic and security-oriented countermeasures.
🇮🇳 India’s Further Retaliatory Steps:
- Indus Waters Treaty (1960) put in abeyance until Pakistan verifiably ceases its support for terrorism.
- Attari Integrated Check Post shut down for Pakistani movements.
- Pakistani High Commission officials declared Persona Non Grata, given 7 days to leave.
- SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme visas cancelled for Pakistani holders, who must exit India within 48 hours.
🔴 Background: Pahalgam Attack Overview
On Tuesday, terrorists attacked tourists at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, resulting in 26 fatalities—one of the deadliest attacks since Pulwama 2019. India has squarely blamed cross-border terrorism supported by Pakistan for the carnage.
India’s strong and swift diplomatic and policy responses reflect a firm stance on national security and counterterrorism, signaling a new phase in India-Pakistan relations amid mounting regional tensions.