India Declares Second Pakistani Diplomat Persona Non Grata in Ten Days

India has declared a second Pakistani diplomat as persona non grata in a short span of ten days, escalating tensions between the two neighboring countries. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the move on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, following a series of diplomatic actions in response to recent incidents along the India-Pakistan border.

The MEA statement confirmed that a Pakistani official stationed at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has been designated as persona non grata. This designation requires the individual to leave India within 24 hours. The official was also directed to ensure that no Pakistani diplomats or officials in India misuse their privileges or status in the future.

This follows a similar move on May 13, when a staff member of the Pakistan High Commission was also declared persona non grata by India. In response, Pakistani authorities expelled a staff member from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. The two countries have maintained diplomatic ties despite the recent developments, but the expulsions are expected to lead to a reduction in the number of officials at both missions.

The current diplomatic standoff comes amid heightened tensions following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in several casualties. In retaliation, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting Pakistani militant groups believed to be responsible for the attack. The two nations have not yet severed diplomatic relations, but the recent actions signal a significant escalation in their bilateral relationship.

India’s decision to declare the second Pakistani diplomat as persona non grata underscores its firm stance on maintaining national security and upholding the integrity of its diplomatic missions. The move is part of a broader effort to counter what India perceives as threats to its sovereignty and security from Pakistan.

As the situation develops, both countries will likely continue to monitor each other’s actions closely. The diplomatic friction has the potential to affect not only bilateral relations but also the broader regional security landscape. The international community will be watching closely as both nations navigate this challenging period.