In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, India’s visa cancellation order has resulted in a significant movement of people across the Attari-Wagah border. Officials confirmed that 786 Pakistani nationals, including 55 diplomats, their dependents, and support staff, have left India in the past six days. Additionally, eight Indians holding Pakistani visas also departed through the same border crossing.
On the other side, 1,465 Indians, including 25 diplomats and officials, have returned home from Pakistan since April 24. Among them were 151 Pakistani citizens with long-term Indian visas who crossed into India.
The Indian government issued the ‘Leave India’ notice to Pakistani nationals following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists. The attack was linked to Pakistan-based terrorists, prompting New Delhi to take stringent diplomatic measures.
Pakistani nationals holding SAARC visas were given until April 26 to exit India, while those on medical visas had until April 29 to leave. The move is part of India’s broader response to the terror attack, which also included downgrading diplomatic ties and suspending bilateral trade agreements.
The Attari-Wagah border, a key crossing point between India and Pakistan, has seen heightened activity as citizens from both countries comply with the new visa regulations. Indian authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure smooth transit while maintaining security protocols.
This development marks another escalation in India-Pakistan tensions, with New Delhi emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy toward cross-border terrorism. The return of Indian diplomats and citizens signals a further strain in bilateral relations, with no immediate signs of de-escalation.
The government continues to assess the security scenario, and further measures may be announced depending on Pakistan’s response to India’s demands for accountability in the Pahalgam attack. The international community is closely watching the situation, given its potential implications for regional stability.
As the diplomatic standoff continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of citizens and maintaining pressure on Pakistan to act against terror groups operating from its soil. The coming weeks may prove critical in determining the future trajectory of India-Pakistan relations.
Disclaimer: This report is based on official statements and border authority data. The numbers may be updated as the situation evolves.
Source: NDTV
