Pakistani woman in Bhubaneswar to return home amid visa revocations following Pahalgam attack

Bhubaneswar: In the aftermath of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, the Indian government has initiated a series of measures targeting Pakistani nationals residing in India. As part of this response, a Pakistani woman living in Bhubaneswar is preparing to return to her home country following an official notice from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The woman, who had been residing in Odisha’s capital since 2008 on a long-term visa after marrying an Indian citizen employed as an air conditioning mechanic, had applied for a visa renewal when her previous visa expired in 2024. However, her application was rejected, prompting her to request permission to return to Pakistan. The Ministry approved her departure and issued a 48-hour notice for her to leave the country.

Authorities reported that a total of 12 Pakistani nationals were living in various parts of Odisha. Of these, four have already left, while the remaining eight have been directed to depart by April 27. On Friday, the Odisha government instructed all 12 to leave the country in compliance with the central directive.

The order follows Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s communication with state Chief Ministers, instructing them to identify all Pakistani nationals within their jurisdictions and facilitate their deportation.

A senior police official confirmed that all 12 individuals held long-term visas and were registered with local police stations as required. Under Indian law, Pakistani nationals holding visas valid for more than six months must register with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) or the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival. In areas without FRRO or FRO offices, the Superintendent of Police fulfills this role.

As part of the central government’s broader diplomatic response, all existing visas issued to Pakistani nationals will stand cancelled effective April 27. However, medical visas will remain valid until April 29.

The visa cancellations are part of a five-point action plan adopted during a Cabinet Committee on Security meeting. The measures include the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Attari-Wagah border, designation of defence advisors as persona non grata, and a significant reduction in diplomatic staff on both sides.