New Delhi, May 3 -- Amid rising tensions in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, India on Saturday banned Pakistani ships from ports to 'ensure safety of assets.'

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issued a statement saying that ships bearing Pakistan flag shall not be allowed to visit any Indian port.

Similarly, a ship bearing the tricolor is barred from visiting any ports of Pakistan, the statement said.

As per the ministry, the objective of act is to foster the development and ensure the efficient maintenance of an Indian mercantile marine, in a manner best suited to serve the national interests.

The statement said that under the Section 411 of the Indian Constitution (read with Preamble) of Merchant Shipping Act...