As tensions between Pakistan and India have increased over the recent state atrocities in Kashmir, India has called upon its diplomats to withdraw their children from schools in Islamabad.
Indian officials have to send their wards back to the country or make a return themselves, The Times of India quoted official sources.
The two countries have been engaged in a war of words since the killing of Kashmiri pro-freedom leader Burhan Wani followed by deaths of dozen other protesters at the hands of Indian forces.
“What it means is that no Indian official based in Pakistan can have his or her children living with them. Those who seek a posting in Pakistan will have to keep that in mind too,” an official told TOI and added, “Spouses, however, can remain in Pakistan for now.”
Currently, there are about 50 children of Indian officials studying in Islamabad’s American School.
“It is a normal practice for all countries to review staffing and related policies for their diplomatic missions, including in view of prevailing circumstances at those stations,” said spokesperson for Indian External Affairs Ministry Vikas Swarup.
“With effect from this academic session, officials posted in the High Commission of India in Islamabad have been advised to make arrangements for education of their wards outside Pakistan, till further notice,” he added.
Indian officials said the decision to caution the diplomats had been taken in 2015 so that the staff may have sufficient time to make alternate arrangements.
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