Date: 23 April 2025
Location: New Delhi
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened on the evening of 22 April 2025 under the Chairmanship of the Hon’ble Prime Minister to deliberate on the terrorist attack that occurred earlier in the day in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The attack resulted in the tragic deaths of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, with several others sustaining injuries.
Condemnation and Condolences
The CCS unequivocally condemned the heinous act of terrorism in the strongest possible terms. It extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and conveyed its hope for the speedy recovery of those injured in the attack.
The Committee noted and deeply appreciated the overwhelming support and solidarity expressed by numerous foreign governments. The international community’s unanimous condemnation of the attack reaffirmed the global consensus for zero tolerance towards terrorism.
Security Briefing and Strategic Context
During the CCS briefing, officials highlighted credible cross-border linkages associated with the Pahalgam attack. The incident, it was noted, occurred amidst a period of peaceful democratic exercise and positive economic momentum in the Union Territory, suggesting a deliberate attempt to destabilize progress in the region.
Key Decisions and Measures
Recognizing the gravity of the security breach, the CCS approved the following immediate measures:
- Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (1960): The Treaty will be held in abeyance with immediate effect. Resumption of its provisions is contingent upon Pakistan’s verifiable and irreversible cessation of support for cross-border terrorism.
- Closure of Integrated Check Post (ICP) Attari: The Attari ICP is closed with immediate effect. Individuals who have entered India through valid endorsements may return via this route no later than 01 May 2025.
- Termination of SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani Nationals: Pakistani nationals will no longer be permitted to travel to India under SVES. All previously issued SVES visas stand cancelled. Pakistani nationals currently in India under this scheme must depart within 48 hours.
- Diplomatic Downgrade – Defence Attaches Declared Persona Non Grata: Military, Naval, and Air Advisors of the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared persona non grata and must exit India within a week. India will reciprocally withdraw its Service Advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Five additional support staff members from each mission will also be withdrawn. These respective posts are henceforth annulled.
- Reduction in Diplomatic Personnel: The total number of staff at both High Commissions will be reduced from 55 to 30. These adjustments will be implemented by 01 May 2025.
Security Outlook and Future Action
The CCS assessed the national security landscape and directed all armed and paramilitary forces to maintain maximum alertness across vulnerable regions. The Committee reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to bring the perpetrators and their sponsors to justice. Recalling the successful extradition of Tahawwur Rana, the CCS emphasized that India will continue its firm and persistent pursuit of individuals involved in acts of terror, both domestically and internationally.
End of Report