New Delhi, April 25: In the aftermath of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed all State Chief Ministers to identify Pakistani nationals residing in their jurisdictions and initiate steps for their prompt return to Pakistan. The move comes just a day after India officially revoked visas issued to Pakistani citizens, signaling a strong diplomatic and internal security response to the incident.
Sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs revealed that Shah personally reached out to each Chief Minister, emphasizing the importance of national security and urging swift action. He instructed states to conduct detailed reviews of foreign nationals, particularly those from Pakistan, and coordinate with central agencies to facilitate their return.
This directive marks a significant escalation in India’s response to cross-border terrorism. It reflects the Centre’s intent to not only pursue accountability for the attack but also to reassess its broader relationship with Pakistan, especially in terms of civilian movement and bilateral agreements.
In a related development, Amit Shah is also scheduled to chair a high-level meeting in New Delhi later this evening to review the Indus Waters Treaty. The meeting will be attended by Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil and senior officials. India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty—a key water-sharing agreement with Pakistan signed in 1960—marks another strong step in response to the terror strike.
The decisions taken in the wake of the Pahalgam attack underline the Indian government’s stern approach toward counter-terrorism and cross-border threats. As investigations continue, officials say further measures aimed at tightening security and revisiting diplomatic protocols with Pakistan are expected in the coming days.