Pahalgam Attack: India suspends Indus Waters Treaty, orders Pakistanis to leave within 48 hours

India on Wednesday announced the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that claimed the lives of at least 26 tourists.

The attack occurred in the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam, located in the Anantnag district of the disputed region.

According to police and hospital records cited by AFP, all the victims were men, primarily from across India, with one individual from Nepal. Seventeen others were reportedly injured in what authorities described as the deadliest civilian attack in the region since 2000.

In response to the incident, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which decided to suspend the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, a water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan brokered by the World Bank.

Addressing a press conference, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the decision would remain in effect until Pakistan “credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism.”

He also announced the immediate closure of the Attari border check post to Pakistanis, cancellation of all Saarc Visa Exemption Scheme endorsements, and a 48-hour deadline for Pakistani nationals currently in India under the scheme to exit the country.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pledged a “loud and clear” response to those responsible, indicating the government would target both the perpetrators and those allegedly behind the scenes. Singh did not name any groups but emphasised that all necessary actions would be taken.

Meanwhile, Pakistan expressed concern over the attack. Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Khan extended condolences to the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

The group reportedly claiming responsibility, The Resistance Front, is a lesser-known entity. Indian security forces have launched a manhunt in the region, deploying helicopters and ground troops.

Read more: Pakistan expresses concern over tourist casualties in IIOJK attack

The violence comes amidst recent elections in the union territory, which New Delhi sees as part of its broader efforts toward normalization and economic development in the region.

The incident has drawn international attention, with world leaders, including former U.S. President Donald Trump and China, condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with India.