With a clear-cut reaction to the Apr 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists, India has signed into law a series of stringent regulations practically cutting all economic and diplomatic links with Pakistan.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued a prompt ban on all imports that are from or passing through Pakistan. This is on all the goods that have been allowed prior to existing trade agreements. National security was stated by the DGFT as the major reason behind this move.
At the same time, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has restricted all Pakistan-flagged ships from entering Indian ports. Indian-flagged ships are also barred from calling on Pakistani ports. The DGS said these measures are meant to protect Indian maritime assets and infrastructure.
The Department of Posts has halted the exchange of mail and parcels of all types between the two nations through air and land routes. This action again highlights India's response as overall.
These steps come after previous actions, such as the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Wagah-Attari border—the only functioning land crossing between the two countries—and the ousting of Pakistani diplomats. India has also shut its airspace to Pakistani planes.
Pakistan has denied any role in the Pahalgam attack and has demanded an impartial investigation. In response to India's actions, Pakistan has suspended the 1972 Shimla Agreement, has shut its air space to Indian planes, and suspended all trade with India. The government of Pakistan has also expelled Indian diplomats and lowered the personnel strength at the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.
The rising tensions have been a cause of concern globally. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has made diplomatic approaches, calling upon both countries to de-escalate and engage. Even after these calls, both nations are on high alert, with reports of cross-Line of Control skirmishes.
The situation keeps changing, with the global community keeping a watchful eye on things between the two nuclear powers.
