SAARC Scheme Scrapped: Pakistanis Ordered Out Amid India-Pakistan Fallout

In a significant escalation of tensions following a deadly terrorist attack in the disputed Kashmir region, India and Pakistan have taken a series of strict measures against each other's nationals and diplomatic presence.

Pakistanis Ordered Out Amid India-Pakistan Fallout

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Visa Cancellations And Expulsions

India has announced the cancellation of all visas issued to Pakistani nationals, effective from Sunday, April 27, 2025. This includes tourist, business, and other categories of visas. A slight extension has been granted for medical visas, which will remain valid only until Tuesday, April 29, 2025. The Ministry of External Affairs has directed all Pakistani citizens currently in India to leave the country before the expiry of their visas based on these revised timelines.

In a reciprocal move, Pakistan has also canceled all visas for Indian nationals. Additionally, Islamabad has reportedly expelled all Indian defense, air, and naval attaches stationed in Pakistan.

Cancellation Of SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) For Pakistanis

Adding to the travel restrictions, India has also canceled the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals. The SVES, a regional initiative to facilitate people-to-people contact, allowed certain categories of individuals such as parliamentarians, judges, journalists, and business leaders from SAARC member states to travel to other member countries without a visa. India has stated that all SVES visas previously issued to Pakistani nationals are now void, and any Pakistani national currently in India under this scheme has been given 48 hours to leave the country.

Pakistan has also announced the suspension of all visas under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme, except for Sikh religious pilgrims. Indians holding such visas in Pakistan have also been asked to leave within 48 hours.

48-Hour Ultimatum

The directive for Pakistani nationals under the SVES to leave within 48 hours has created significant distress and uncertainty, particularly for those who had come to India for family visits or medical treatment. Many have voiced their anguish over the short notice and logistical challenges of returning home so quickly.

Other Measures

These visa and travel restrictions are part of a broader set of actions initiated by India following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which resulted in the death of 26 people. India has blamed Pakistan for supporting the militants responsible for the attack, a charge Pakistan vehemently denies.

Other measures Taken By India Include

1) Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty: India has unilaterally suspended the landmark water-sharing treaty with Pakistan, citing Pakistan's alleged support for cross-border terrorism.

2) Closure of the Attari Border Crossing: The only functional land border crossing between India and Pakistan has been closed with immediate effect.

3) Downgrading Diplomatic Ties: Both countries have decided to reduce the staff strength at their respective High Commissions to 30, to be implemented by May 1, 2025. India has also declared Pakistani defense, military, naval, and air advisors in New Delhi as persona non grata and asked them to leave the country within a week, with a reciprocal measure taken by Pakistan.

4) Travel Advisory: India has strongly advised its citizens against traveling to Pakistan and urged those currently in Pakistan to return at the earliest.

Pakistan's Response

Pakistan has strongly condemned India's actions, terming them "belligerent measures." Islamabad has stated that while it remains committed to peace, it will not allow any transgression of its sovereignty, security, dignity, and inalienable rights. Pakistan has also warned that any attempt by India to stop or divert the flow of water under the Indus Waters Treaty would be considered an "act of war." Additionally, Pakistan has announced the closure of its airspace for all Indian-owned or India-operated airlines and suspended all trade with India, including transit trade through third countries.

Impact And Implications

These drastic measures mark a significant downturn in the already strained relationship between India and Pakistan. The cancellation of visas and the SVES will severely impact people-to-people contact and could have implications for various sectors, including business, tourism, and medical travel. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty is particularly concerning due to its potential impact on agriculture and water resources in both countries. The reduction in diplomatic staff will further limit communication and the ability to address bilateral issues.

The international community is closely watching these developments, with concerns about potential escalation and the need for de-escalation measures.