Diplomatic Tensions Rise as Pakistan Expels Indian Official Following Espionage Allegations

The diplomatic relationship between India and Pakistan has reached a new low as both countries expel officials over espionage allegations. Following India's expulsion of a Pakistani diplomat, Pakistan has reciprocated by declaring an Indian official persona non grata. This escalation comes in the wake of a deadly terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir, which has heightened tensions further. Both nations have cited activities inconsistent with diplomatic status as the reason for these expulsions. The situation reflects ongoing hostilities and the fragile state of diplomatic relations in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 22, 2025, 13:10 IST

Escalation of Diplomatic Relations

In a recent development, Pakistan has declared an Indian official working at its High Commission in Islamabad as persona non grata, following India's expulsion of a Pakistani official on espionage charges. This reciprocal action highlights the increasing strain in diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Last week, India expelled two Pakistani officials, citing their involvement in activities deemed inconsistent with their diplomatic status. Both countries have used the term 'persona non grata' to describe the situation, which often implies espionage.

The tensions escalated after a tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, in April 2025, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives. In response, India conducted targeted strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in early May, under the operation named 'Operation Sindoor.' Following these strikes, Pakistan attempted to target Indian military bases on several occasions, prompting a strong response from India.

After a brief period of military de-escalation, facilitated by discussions between the directors general of military operations from both sides on May 10, India expelled the Pakistani official on May 21, marking the second such expulsion within the month. Earlier, on May 13, another Pakistani official was removed for similar reasons.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India confirmed the expulsion, stating that the Pakistani official was involved in activities not aligned with his official status. The official was instructed to leave India within 24 hours. Additionally, the Charge d’Affaires of the Pakistan High Commission was formally notified to ensure that no Pakistani diplomats misuse their privileges.

In a similar vein, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan announced via Twitter that an Indian High Commission staff member had been declared persona non grata for engaging in activities inconsistent with his diplomatic status, also requiring him to depart within 24 hours.