India cancels SAARC visa exemption for Pakistanis, orders exit within 48 hours

In a significant move following the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, the Indian government has cancelled the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals. Those already present in India under the scheme have been ordered to leave the country within 48 hours.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, addressing the media after the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said the attack's cross-border linkages were clearly established. He added that the terror strike came at a time when Jammu and Kashmir was making steady economic and political progress following the successful completion of Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.

The CCS, India's highest security decision-making body, appreciated the strong expressions of support from global leaders, noting that the world’s zero tolerance for terrorism was evident. These messages, officials said, reflected growing international isolation for nations sponsoring terror.

As part of the decisions taken, Pakistani nationals will no longer be permitted to enter India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. All existing SVES visas for Pakistanis have been deemed cancelled, and those currently residing in India have been given a 48-hour window to exit the country.

The government emphasized that these measures are aimed at tightening security and sending a clear message that acts of terror will have severe diplomatic and practical consequences. Officials also hinted at further steps if Pakistan does not act against terrorist outfits operating from its soil.

India’s series of swift and tough actions after the Pahalgam terror attack underlines a major shift in policy where diplomatic courtesy is being set aside to prioritize national security and assert zero tolerance for terrorism.