April 25, 2025:
In the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the daily flag-lowering ceremony at the Attari-Wagah Integrated Checkpost was conducted in a subdued manner on Thursday, without the customary opening of gates between India and Pakistan.
Authorities confirmed that the decision came following a directive from the Government of India, which has ordered the immediate suspension of operations at the Attari Integrated Checkpost (ICP). The move is being seen as part of heightened security protocols and diplomatic caution following the tragic incident in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which claimed multiple lives and injured several others.
While the ceremony — a symbolic display of military respect and national pride jointly performed by the Border Security Force (BSF) and Pakistan Rangers — usually involves a synchronized drill with gates flung open at the zero line, Thursday’s event was marked by a stark change. The gates remained shut, a rare occurrence that underscored the gravity of the current geopolitical situation.
Government officials stated that Pakistani nationals who are presently in India on valid visas and endorsements will be allowed to return through the Attari route until May 1, 2025. After this date, no cross-border civilian movement will be permitted until further notice.
