India Suspends Indus Waters Treaty and Closes Attari Border Amidst Terror Attack Fallout

What happened?

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) met under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 23, 2025, to address the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the death of 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen. The CCS condemned the attack and decided to hold the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 in abeyance, close the Integrated Check Post Attari, and impose travel restrictions on Pakistani nationals. Additionally, Pakistani defence officials in New Delhi were declared persona non grata, and the strength of the High Commissions will be reduced.   

Why it matters to India

The decisions made by the CCS reflect India’s strong response to the cross-border terrorism, with a focus on reconfiguring the deterrence framework with Pakistan. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the closing of the Attari border are significant actions impacting bilateral relations and security. India aims to convey a clear message that it will not tolerate terrorism and will take all necessary steps to ensure national security and seek justice for the victims.