Sat Apr 26 01:22:23 UTC 2025: ## India Halts Water Flow to Pakistan, Announces Rafale Deal Amidst Pahalgam Attack Fallout

**New Delhi, April 26, 2025** – India is taking decisive action on multiple fronts, following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. The government announced it is developing a strategy to completely stop the flow of water from India into Pakistan, a move confirmed by Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Paatil. This decision comes amidst rising tensions and follows Pakistan’s Defence Minister’s admission of past support for terrorist organizations.

Meanwhile, India and France are poised to finalize a ₹63,000-crore deal for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets on Monday, solidifying a key defense partnership. The agreement, originally slated for an in-person signing, will now be concluded remotely.

The Pahalgam attack has prompted swift repercussions. The NIA is conducting searches in a probe linked to Pakistan-backed arms and narcotics smuggling by “Khalistani” operatives. Furthermore, 191 Pakistani nationals were deported following a 48-hour deadline set by the Centre, and 14 categories of visas for Pakistani citizens have been revoked. The incident has also highlighted security lapses, with a senior J&K official confirming that police permission is not typically sought for the Baisaran meadow tourist spot.

Internationally, President Droupadi Murmu attended Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome, while US President Donald Trump’s comments on Crimea underscored ongoing geopolitical complexities. US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard expressed America’s solidarity with India in its pursuit of justice for the Pahalgam victims. A Bangladeshi water expert commented on India’s decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan ‘in abeyance,’ viewing it as a potential use of water as a strategic tool.

In other news, the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry unveiled a national blueprint for comprehensive water security, aiming for universal access to “drink from tap” facilities. Finally, the Chennai Super Kings suffered a significant defeat in the IPL, losing their home ground advantage. The passing of former ISRO Chairman Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan was also noted, marking the end of an era for Indian space exploration.

Read More