India Bans Pakistani Ships from Ports, Tightens Trade Restrictions Following Pahalgam Attack

In a decisive move following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has barred Pakistani-flagged ships from entering Indian ports and prohibited Indian-flagged vessels from visiting ports in Pakistan. The order, effective immediately, has been issued under Section 411 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, aimed at safeguarding Indian assets, cargo, and port infrastructure.

Ministry Order Cites National Security Concerns

“The objective of the Act is to foster the development and ensure the efficient maintenance of an Indian mercantile marine, in a manner best suited to serve national interests,” the ministry stated in its official order. The restrictions will remain in place until further notice as part of broader efforts to bolster maritime security and protect the country’s shipping interests.

As per the order, “A ship bearing the flag of Pakistan shall not be allowed to visit any Indian port, and an Indian-flagged ship shall not visit any ports of Pakistan.” The ministry also noted that any exemptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Broader Diplomatic and Economic Measures

The maritime restrictions are part of a series of actions taken by India in response to Pakistan’s continued support for cross-border terrorism. In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 lives, India has also suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, shut down the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, and reduced the staffing strength at both countries’ High Commissions.

Trade Restrictions Tightened

In a separate move, the Indian government imposed an immediate ban on the direct and indirect import of all goods from Pakistan. According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Commerce on May 2, a provision has been added to the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 prohibiting the import or transit of any goods originating from or exported via Pakistan until further orders.

The Wagah-Attari crossing — the only trade route between the two nations — was also closed following the Pahalgam incident. Trade between India and Pakistan had already been in sharp decline since the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, after which India levied a 200 per cent duty on Pakistani imports, which previously included pharmaceuticals, fruits, and oilseeds.