In a decisive diplomatic response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 Indian tourists, the Indian government has severed all diplomatic ties with Pakistan and cancelled all visas issued to Pakistani nationals currently residing in the country.
A senior government official confirmed that 786 Pakistani nationals have exited India through the Attari border crossing in Punjab since April 24, just two days after the April 22 terror strike.
Personal Pleas Amid Mass Departures
The sweeping decision has triggered emotional and desperate appeals from Pakistani nationals with long-standing ties to India.
One such individual, Osama, a student pursuing a bachelor’s degree, shared his distress while preparing to leave the country.
“I’ve lived here for 17 years. I’ve completed my education here and was preparing for job interviews. I even have a ration card and have cast my vote here. I request the government to give us more time. I have no future in Pakistan,” he said in an interview with media.
Another woman, who had been residing in India for 41 years, broke down while sharing her ordeal.
“I am leaving behind my four daughters. I have no family in Pakistan. We are being punished for an attack we had nothing to do with,” she said before crossing into Pakistan via Attari.
Government’s Stand and National Security Measures
The government’s decision comes in the wake of nationwide outrage and demands for accountability after the Pahalgam attack, considered the deadliest since the 2019 Pulwama blast.
While no group has officially claimed responsibility, intelligence inputs have pointed toward Pakistan-based terror networks, prompting India to escalate diplomatic and security responses.
Following the visa cancellation, security agencies have been instructed to identify and facilitate the departure of all Pakistani citizens residing on temporary or long-term visas. Authorities are also reportedly reviewing citizenship applications and residency claims of individuals of Pakistani origin.
Background: The Pahalgam Attack
The April 22 attack targeted Indian tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26 civilians and injuring several others. It has drawn widespread condemnation, with national and international leaders expressing solidarity with the victims.
The incident has reignited calls for a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, and opposition parties have also urged the government to convene a special session of Parliament to deliberate on national security.