Pahalgam Terror Attack – Key Developments and Government Response 

A heinous terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 20, 2025, claimed the lives of 26 individuals and left several others injured. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, and the Union Government has escalated efforts to address the terrorist threat and strengthen security measures.

In response to the attack, several political, diplomatic, and security-related actions have been undertaken by the Indian government to deal with the situation and prevent future threats.

Key Political and Government Responses

All-Party Meeting Called by the Government

• The Union Government convened an all-party meeting on April 24, 2025, following the attack.
• Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reached out to political leaders from various parties to personally invite them to the meeting.
• The primary focus of the meeting was to discuss the escalating terrorism threat in Jammu & Kashmir and the required security measures to curb it.

Congress’ Demand for Urgent Action

• The Indian National Congress has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to personally attend the meeting, with a demand for immediate action to address the situation.
• The party has called for stricter enforcement of counter-terrorism laws and for tackling cross-border terrorism.

Suspension of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT)

• Following the attack, the Union Government decided to suspend the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan.
  • This treaty governs the use of the waters of the Indus River system, which includes rivers flowing through Jammu & Kashmir.
  • The suspension has been justified by India citing the “fundamental change of circumstances” clause under Article 62 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.
  • This move is seen as a diplomatic response to Pakistan’s alleged involvement in supporting terror activities in India.

Closure of Transit Point

• The transit point to Pakistan has been shut down immediately.
• The decision to close the point comes as part of measures to cut off logistical support for terrorist elements and prevent the flow of arms and supplies.

Domestic Reactions and Measures

Punjab on High Alert

• Following the attack, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann ordered heightened security measures across the state.
• The focus is on increasing vigilance along borders and securing vital installations to prevent any possible retaliatory strikes or cross-border infiltration.

Evacuation of Tourists

• In the aftermath of the attack, the Maharashtra government oversaw the safe evacuation of 65 tourists from Pahalgam to Mumbai.
• Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde supervised the evacuation, ensuring that the tourists’ safety was prioritised.
• Karnataka has also expressed its solemn condolences for the victims, with state officials ensuring the safe return of two Karnataka-based victims to Bengaluru for a formal reception.

Victims and Their Stories

• IAF Corporal Tag Hajingar from Arunachal Pradesh was one of the victims. His mortal remains were flown to Guwahati, where they were received by Assam’s Minister Jayanta Malah Baruah.
• IB Officer Manish Ranjan from Jharkhand was on vacation with his family. His remains were transported to Ranchi, where his family has demanded justice for his tragic death.

Background on the Indus Water Treaty (IWT)

Key Provisions of the IWT

• Signed in 1960, the Indus Water Treaty was brokered by the World Bank.
• It allocated control over the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India, and the western rivers (Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan, with each country responsible for managing its own water resources.

Current Situation

• The Indus Water Treaty is now suspended by India due to its decision to invoke Article 62 of the Vienna Convention, citing a significant change in circumstances after the Pahalgam attack. 
• India’s suspension of the treaty is viewed as a strategic diplomatic and military response to Pakistan’s support for cross-border terrorism.

Conclusion

The Pahalgam terror attack has triggered a series of political, diplomatic, and security measures aimed at curbing the growing threat of terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir and beyond. The suspension of the Indus Water Treaty and the closure of transit points signify India’s growing frustration with Pakistan’s role in supporting cross-border terrorism.

As security agencies continue to monitor the situation, both the Union Government and local leaders are working together to address the immediate aftermath of the attack and to secure the long-term safety of the region.