Pakistani diplomats posted at the High Commission in New Delhi are reportedly facing a series of hostile actions, including eviction notices, service disruptions, and delays in visa renewals, according to a report in The News on Tuesday.
At least four diplomats have allegedly been served eviction notices for their privately rented homes before their tenancy agreements ended. Sources claimed that their movements are under constant surveillance, while gas and internet services have been cut off periodically.
Seventeen High Commission staff members, including diplomats, are still awaiting Indian visa extensions, despite having submitted requests three to five months ago. The Pakistani mission has also reported that its water supply has been cut and the delivery of Indian newspapers to the premises has been stopped for over six weeks. These developments have been formally communicated to Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The reported harassment comes amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and India following a brief but intense armed confrontation in May. India carried out cross-border strikes in Pakistan, claiming to target militants linked to an attack in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan retaliated with Operation Bunyam-um-Marsoos, shooting down several Indian Air Force jets, including three Rafales.
The 87-hour conflict involved aerial and ground strikes from both sides, leaving 40 civilians dead and 13 Pakistani military personnel martyred. Following the hostilities, the Indian government announced the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan.
However, the Permanent Court of Arbitration recently ruled that India must allow the waters of the western rivers to flow freely for Pakistan’s use under the IWT.