The terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 individuals. In response, the Government of India, through the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), announced retaliatory actions against Pakistan. These measures include the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a reduction in diplomatic relations, and the closure of the Attari-Wagah border.
About the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS)
The CCS is important body in India’s national security framework. Chaired by the Prime Minister, it includes key ministers from Defence, Home Affairs, Finance, and External Affairs. The committee is responsible for discussing national security issues, making appointments in security bodies, and taking decisions on defence expenditure. It may also involve defence chiefs and senior bureaucrats as necessary.
Functions of Cabinet Committees
Cabinet committees are formed after general elections once a Union Cabinet is established. The Prime Minister selects members and assigns specific functions to each committee. These committees, typically consisting of three to eight members, resolve issues and formulate proposals for the Cabinet’s consideration. While most members are Cabinet ministers, non-Cabinet ministers can also be included.
Current Composition of CCS
As of now, the CCS comprises the Prime Minister and ministers responsible for Defence, Home Affairs, External Affairs, and Finance. This composition allows for a comprehensive approach to national security, addressing both internal and external threats. The CCS can convene during events requiring immediate attention.
Historical Context of CCS Meetings
CCS meetings have been very important during critical moments in Indian history. Notable instances include discussions during the wars with Pakistan, the Kargil conflict, and the IC 814 hijacking incident. These meetings, often held in secrecy, have shaped India’s security policies and responses to emerging threats.
Recent Retaliatory Actions
Following the Pahalgam attack, India took several drastic measures. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty marks shift in bilateral relations with Pakistan. Reducing diplomatic presence and cancelling visas under the SAARC scheme further puts stress on India’s stance. Closing the Attari-Wagah border is a strong symbolic action against Pakistan.
Implications of the Retaliatory Measures
These actions are likely to escalate tensions between India and Pakistan. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could impact water sharing and agricultural practices in both countries. Additionally, the downgrading of diplomatic relations may hinder dialogue and cooperation on various fronts.
Future Outlook
The CCS’s decisions will shape India’s security landscape moving forward. The effectiveness of these measures in deterring future attacks remains to be seen. The international community will also be closely monitoring the developments in this volatile region.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the role of the Cabinet Committee on Security in shaping India’s national security policies.
- Discuss the implications of the Indus Waters Treaty suspension on India-Pakistan relations.
- What are the historical precedents for Cabinet Committee on Security meetings during national crises? Analyse their outcomes.
- Critically discuss the impact of diplomatic downgrading on international relations, taking examples from recent events.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the role of the Cabinet Committee on Security in shaping India’s national security policies.
- CCS is chaired by the Prime Minister and includes key ministers from Defence, Home Affairs, Finance, and External Affairs.
- It is responsible for major decisions regarding national security and defence expenditure.
- CCS discusses and debates security issues and appointments in national security bodies.
- The committee can involve defence chiefs and senior bureaucrats for comprehensive deliberation.
- It has been very important in responding to threats and crises, influencing policy direction and military strategy.
2. Discuss the implications of the Indus Waters Treaty suspension on India-Pakistan relations.
- The treaty governs water sharing of the Indus River system, crucial for agriculture in both countries.
- Suspension could lead to water scarcity and agricultural challenges in Pakistan, escalating tensions.
- It signifies a major shift in diplomatic relations, indicating reduced cooperation and increased hostility.
- International stakeholders may intervene, complicating bilateral relations further.
- Long-term implications could include increased militarization and conflict over water resources.
3. What are the historical precedents for Cabinet Committee on Security meetings during national crises? Analyse their outcomes.
- CCS meetings have occurred during events like the Kargil conflict and the IC 814 hijacking.
- In 1971, a CCS meeting debated military actions during the Bangladesh Liberation War, leading to strategic decisions.
- The 1999 hijacking incident involved CCS in crisis management, resulting in hostage negotiations with terrorists.
- Outcomes often shaped military strategy and diplomatic responses, reflecting India’s security priorities.
- Meetings are typically confidential, with details emerging later, indicating their sensitive nature.
4. Critically discuss the impact of diplomatic downgrading on international relations, taking examples from recent events.
- Diplomatic downgrading often leads to reduced dialogue and cooperation, exemplified by India-Pakistan relations post-Pahalgam attack.
- It can hinder collaborative efforts on trade, security, and regional stability.
- Recent examples include the fallout between countries after military or terrorist incidents.
- Downgrading can provoke retaliatory measures from the affected nation, escalating tensions.
- Long-term effects may include isolation or realignment of alliances in the international community.
