Synopsis
In a decisive move, Hindu Pakistani nationals holding Long Term Visas are exempted from the recent visa revocation by the Indian government following the Pahalgam terror attack. This decision aims to maintain diplomatic ties amidst escalating tensions.Key Takeaways
- Long Term Visas for Hindu Pakistani nationals remain intact.
- Indian citizens in Pakistan advised to return home.
- Suspension of visas for Pakistani nationals effective April 27.
- Indus Waters Treaty discussions scheduled.
- Prime Minister Modi vows to combat terrorism.
New Delhi, April 25 (NationPress) In a significant step following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in 26 casualties, the Ministry of External Affairs clarified visa limitations on Thursday.
The government emphasized that the cancellation of visas does not extend to Long Term Visas (LTVs) previously issued to Hindu Pakistani nationals.
As the situation between India and Pakistan escalates, New Delhi has urged Indian citizens living in Pakistan to return home as soon as possible.
This advisory is part of a larger strategy aimed at downgrading diplomatic relations, which also involves halting visa issuance and temporarily suspending the Indus Waters Treaty.
The Ministry's announcement follows the Central government's decision to revoke visas granted to Pakistani nationals, effective from April 27.
Medical visas issued to Pakistani citizens will remain valid only until April 29.
These actions were consolidated during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday.
The Ministry also declared that all currently valid visas granted to Pakistani nationals will be revoked as of April 27.
Pakistani nationals now in India have been instructed to depart the country before their visas expire.
Moreover, Indian citizens are strongly advised against traveling to Pakistan.
In line with the Cabinet Committee's resolutions, visa services for Pakistani nationals have been suspended immediately.
In retaliation, Pakistan announced on Thursday that it would close its airspace to all Indian airlines and halt trade with New Delhi, including through third-party countries.
Pakistan also rejected India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, cautioning that any effort to stop the water flow allocated to Pakistan under the agreement would be considered an act of war.
A high-level meeting is planned for Friday afternoon at the residence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi to discuss the Indus Waters Treaty.
Several Union Ministers, including Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil, are anticipated to participate in this vital meeting.
Amid widespread anger over the terror attack, Prime Minister Modi delivered a firm address on Thursday, pledging to pursue the attackers to the ends of the earth.
Speaking at a rally in Bihar's Madhubani, PM Modi asserted, "Friends, today from the soil of Bihar, I say to the whole world: India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their supporters."
He assured the nation that India's spirit would remain unshaken in the face of terrorism.
