Delhi, 3 May (H.S.): India has enacted a significant measure by banning Pakistani ships from its ports, a decision prompted by the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issued a notification on May 3, stating that no ships flying the Pakistani flag will be permitted to dock at Indian ports, and vice versa for Indian ships visiting Pakistani ports. This ban takes immediate effect and will remain until further notice. The government emphasized that this order is aimed at ensuring the safety of Indian assets, cargo, and connected infrastructure, highlighting public interest and the protection of Indian shipping.

In conjunction with the maritime ban, India has also prohibited all imports from Pakistan. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) released a notification outlining the immediate ban on direct and indirect imports of goods from Pakistan as part of a new provision in the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023. This decision, grounded in national security and public policy, applies to all goods regardless of their import status, with exceptions only permissible upon government approval.

Following the attack, India has implemented additional measures, including closing the Attari land-transit post and expelling Pakistani military attachés, alongside suspending the Indus Water Treaty of 1960. Mail and parcel services from Pakistan have also been halted, underlining India’s resolute response to the security threats posed.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar