🇮🇳 India Cracks Down: Declares Pakistani Diplomats “Persona Non Grata” After Kashmir Attack

In a bold diplomatic move, the Indian government expelled several Pakistani military officials from the country, declaring them persona non grata. This decisive action came just hours after a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed 26 lives and injured many more.

🔥 What Triggered the Action?

On April 21, 2025, terrorists launched a brutal assault in the scenic town of Pahalgam. Intelligence reports swiftly linked the attackers to terror groups operating from Pakistan, prompting India to react with urgency and resolve.

The Ministry of External Affairs summoned Pakistan’s top diplomat in New Delhi, Saad Ahmad Warraich, to deliver a stern warning. Officials handed him a protest note and declared several Pakistani military and intelligence personnel unwelcome on Indian soil.

“India will not tolerate state-sponsored terrorism,” a senior official stated.

📜 The Law Behind the Move

India didn’t make this decision arbitrarily. It invoked Article 9 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), which gives every sovereign state the power to expel foreign diplomats without explanation.

⚔️ Not India’s First PNG Declaration

This isn’t a one-off. India has a history of using persona non grata designations to push back against espionage and terror-related activities:

• In 2020, India expelled two Pakistani officials for spying.

• In 2016, it removed a staffer from the Pakistan High Commission following the Uri terror attack.

• Each expulsion sent a clear message: India will protect its sovereignty—diplomatic immunity or not.

🎯 Why This Matters

Declaring a diplomat persona non grata is one of the strongest signals a country can send short of cutting off diplomatic ties entirely. Here’s why it matters:

• It isolates the offending country.

• It escalates pressure on governments accused of wrongdoing.

• It demonstrates zero tolerance for cross-border terrorism.

• It’s legal, fast, and sends an unmistakable message.

🔁 What’s Next?

Diplomatic retaliation is likely. Pakistan often responds to such moves by expelling Indian diplomats in return. But India appears prepared for that.

“This isn’t just tit-for-tat. This is about protecting Indian lives,” a source close to the Prime Minister’s Office told reporters.

🚨 TL;DR – Key Points

• India expelled Pakistani diplomats after the Pahalgam terror attack.

• The move targets Pakistan’s alleged involvement in terrorism.

• Legal basis: Vienna Convention (1961), Article 9.

• India has used this tool before—in 2020 and 2016.

• The decision signals India’s hardline stance on terrorism.