Actions Taken by India and Pakistan to Harm Each Other After the Kashmir Terror Attack
- India’s Warning – In response to a devastating terrorist attack on civilians in Jammu and Kashmir, India has ramped up its actions. New Delhi vows to hunt down terrorists and their backers “to the edge of the earth,” threatening retaliation that may unfold at a “time and place of choice.” On the flip side, Pakistan continues to engage in “cross-border terrorism,” often seen as funding local terrorist groups, especially in contested regions involving Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
- Water – Following the attacks, India declared severe diplomatic measures, placing the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty “on hold” until Pakistan ceases its support for terrorism. This treaty, which has survived multiple wars, shares vital water resources between the two nations. India traditionally controls the upper river flow, but, out of goodwill, had previously agreed to share. Now, that arrangement is indefinitely suspended, reflecting India’s frustration over Pakistan’s ongoing use of terrorism as a strategy. Pakistan, heavily reliant on these waters for power and irrigation, warns that any diversion would be deemed an “act of war.”
- Travel – Land – The border between India and Pakistan is tightly controlled, especially following the attacks. India now plans to close all border posts, including Atariwaga, prompting Pakistan to announce similar measures. Indian authorities have instructed all Pakistani citizens to return home before a deadline, mirroring Pakistan’s response. With bus and train services having already ceased years ago, travel between the two nations is virtually halted.
- Travel – Air – In retaliation, Pakistan has barred all flights operated by Indian airlines from its airspace. India has fluctuated between similar moves, with current restrictions lasting until May 24, although extensions are likely.
- Travel – Sea – Both countries have restricted ships from entering ports if flying the other nation’s flag, completely severing maritime travel options between them.
- Visa – India has revoked nearly all visas granted to Pakistanis, including for medical treatments, and both countries have ended visa exemptions previously available under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme, affecting diplomats and artists among others.
- Diplomacy – Several Pakistani diplomats in India have been declared “persona non-grata,” with orders to leave by a set deadline. India has resolved to reduce its own diplomatic staff in Pakistan significantly, indicating a deepening rift between the two sides.
- Trade – Islamabad has halted all trade with India, including indirect trade through third countries. Last year’s modest imports did not compel India to counter this move as it posed little impact.
- Postal Service – All traditional communication with Pakistan has been indefinitely suspended, blocking inbound mail and parcels from reaching India.
- Financial Indicators – Facing economic challenges, Pakistan is heavily dependent on loans from international sources, while India is urging the FATF to impose stringent sanctions. A review of Pakistan’s loans by the IMF has also been suggested.
- Sports – Direct sports interactions with Pakistan have been banned for years. Indian athletes, including Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra, have even rescinded invitations to Pakistani counterparts, further straining relations in the sports domain.
- Social Media – India has now blocked 16 Pakistani YouTube channels and several social media accounts, including those of prominent Pakistani figures, further tightening the flow of information between the two countries.
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