India and Pakistan Swap Diplomatic Harassment Claims Amid Eviction Dispute

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated after both sides accused each other of violating diplomatic norms guaranteed under the Vienna Convention. Pakistani officials said four of their diplomats stationed in New Delhi received eviction notices from private landlords well before the end of their contracts, while essential services such as milk, water and internet were reportedly disrupted at several diplomatic residences. Islamabad also complained that Indian authorities allowed surveillance cameras to be installed near its mission and the homes of its staff. New Delhi rejected the criticism and, in turn, pointed to measures taken in the Pakistani capital. According to Indian officials, newspaper deliveries to the Indian High Commission in Islamabad were halted in June, weeks after New Delhi carried out strikes on militant camps during 'Operation Sindoor'. Indian diplomats have also reported aggressive tailing by unmarked vehicles and attempts to enter diplomatic premises without authorization. Both governments have privately exchanged protests, but neither side has signaled a willingness to ease the tit-for-tat restrictions. Diplomatic observers warn that sustained harassment could hamper consular work and further strain already fraught bilateral relations, which remain stalled since the last round of formal talks broke down in 2019.