In a strong response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that killed around 28 Indian tourists, the Indian government has revoked all visas issued to Pakistani nationals from April 27 and directed states to identify and deport any Pakistani citizens currently residing in India. The decision comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, with the Indian leadership calling for immediate and coordinated action at both national and state levels.
Amit Shah’s Call to States for Immediate Action
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday reached out to chief ministers across India following the central government’s decision to cancel all existing visas issued to Pakistani nationals. In a high-level conversation, Shah asked state leaders to promptly identify Pakistanis living in their jurisdictions and initiate the process to send them back. This direction followed a key meeting between Shah and state chief secretaries, where the seriousness of the situation and the need for swift implementation were emphasized.
Shah’s instructions are part of a broader response to the Pahalgam attack, which has been linked to cross-border terror networks. The Centre expects state governments to act swiftly and ensure no Pakistani national remains in India beyond their visa validity.
Diplomatic Fallout and Nationwide Measures
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Thursday that all visas issued to Pakistani nationals are revoked with effect from April 27, except long-term visas granted to Hindu minorities from Pakistan. Medical visas will remain valid only until April 29. Simultaneously, the MEA advised all Indian nationals residing in Pakistan to return home as a precautionary measure.
India has also suspended all visa services for Pakistani citizens with immediate effect. These moves were among several punitive measures announced by the government, including expelling Pakistani military attachés, suspending the 1960 Indus Water Treaty, and shutting down the Attari land transit post. These decisions were taken during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
India’s firm stance reflects its growing intolerance toward state-supported terrorism and its resolve to act decisively in the face of cross-border threats. The MEA has made it clear that all Pakistani nationals currently in India must exit the country before their visa expiry and strongly advised Indian citizens to avoid traveling to Pakistan amid the ongoing tensions.
