India-Pakistan Tensions: Even after India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire following days of cross-border hostilities, India has made it clear that its diplomatic and economic measures against Pakistan will remain intact. These steps were initiated in response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, where 26 people, mostly tourists, lost their lives.
Indus Waters Treaty Suspended
In a major policy shift, India withdrew from the Indus Waters Treaty in April, a key water-sharing agreement signed in 1960. According to MEA sources, the treaty will remain “in abeyance”, even after the ceasefire agreement. This is a significant signal of India’s intent to sustain pressure on Pakistan diplomatically and strategically.
Ceasefire Agreement – No Preconditions
Following military strikes by India on May 7 that targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan, tensions escalated with cross-border firing and drone attacks from Pakistan. The ceasefire was initiated by Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations, who contacted the Indian DGMO on May 11. Both sides agreed to halt all military action on land, air, and sea from 5:00 PM IST.
The ceasefire came after mediation efforts by the United States, with President Donald Trump confirming America’s role in facilitating dialogue.
India’s Post-Attack Measures – What Remains in Force
Despite the ceasefire, the following retaliatory measures imposed by India against Pakistan will continue:
- Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
- Complete ban on imports from Pakistan
- Closure of the Attari Integrated Check Post
- Suspension of all visa services for Pakistani nationals
- Revocation of existing visas
- Halting of postal/mail services between India and Pakistan
- Blocking of Pakistani digital platforms, including YouTube and Instagram channels of Pakistani artists
- Ban on access to Pakistani news outlets (e.g., Geo News, ARY, Dawn)
- Ban on Pakistani ships docking at Indian ports and vice versa
- Expulsion of Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors from Pakistan’s High Commission in New Delhi
- Withdrawal of Indian military attachés from Islamabad
Official Stand
A senior MEA official emphasized that “India’s stance remains firm. There are no pre or post-conditions to the ceasefire.” The measures taken in April are considered strategic counter-terror responses and will be reviewed only based on Pakistan’s actions on the ground, especially in curbing cross-border terrorism.