Following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India has suspended the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals. The move, announced by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, follows claims by The Resistance Front, linked to Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba. Pakistani nationals under SVES have 48 hours to leave India.

BulletsIn

• SAARC visa-free scheme suspended for all Pakistanis
• Triggered by Pahalgam attack killing 26 civilians
• Terror group TRF, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility
• All Pakistani SVES holders ordered to exit India in 48 hours
• India enforces “zero tolerance” stance on terrorism
• Scheme allowed diplomats, officials, media to travel visa-free
• First-ever complete suspension of SVES for a SAARC member
• India also suspends Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan
• Attari-Wagah border to close; all Pakistanis must exit by May 1
• High Commissions to cut staff from 55 to 30; defence advisors expelled