In a sweeping response to the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 people—mostly tourists—the Indian government has revoked nearly all categories of visas issued to Pakistani nationals, effective from April 27. This decision, aimed at bolstering national security, is being strictly enforced by states, including Delhi and Haryana, with clear directives to identify and deport Pakistani citizens currently residing in India.
Centre’s directive and immediate fallout
Following the attack on April 22, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced the revocation of all Pakistani visas, except for long-term, diplomatic, and official categories. While medical visas will remain valid until April 29, no fresh visas will be granted to Pakistani nationals going forward. In a post on X, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that her government is implementing the order without exception, ensuring that all Pakistani citizens leave the national capital before the deadline. Gupta emphasized that violations will be closely monitored and dealt with appropriately.
Echoing the Centre’s urgency, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini also directed all deputy commissioners and police superintendents to ensure no Pakistani national remains in the state after the stipulated date. Additionally, Saini urged officials to guarantee the safety of Kashmiri students in Haryana, indicating a broader concern for internal harmony amidst the crackdown.
Nationwide enforcement and coordination
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has personally reached out to all state chief ministers, instructing them to identify Pakistani nationals residing in their jurisdictions and take swift action to deport them. The Centre has also advised Indian citizens currently living in Pakistan to return home at the earliest.
These decisions are being seen as part of a larger national security push, with emphasis on state-Centre coordination for effective enforcement. State governments are expected to not only track visa violations but also report compliance regularly.
The Centre’s move comes amid heightened concerns over cross-border terrorism and a renewed focus on safeguarding national security. Officials have reiterated the need for strict implementation, with multiple state administrations already mobilizing their law enforcement and immigration departments to act promptly on the directive.
With April 27 set as the enforcement date, and April 29 as the final validity for existing medical visas, the government has drawn a firm line in response to the attack, signaling zero tolerance for any security lapse tied to foreign nationals from Pakistan.
