Following Pahalgam Terror Attack, Four Pakistani Nationals Exit Bengaluru Amid Visa Crackdown

Following Pahalgam Terror Attack, Four Pakistani Nationals Exit Bengaluru Amid Visa Crackdown

In the aftermath of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, four Pakistani nationals residing in Bengaluru on short-term visas have departed India, complying with a central government advisory. According to a report by Deccan Herald, these individuals, who held non-diplomatic, non-official visas, left for Pakistan on April 26 and 27.

An official source cited in the report confirmed, “They were advised to leave the country at the earliest, and all four complied within the specified timeframe.”

The development comes after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs issued a directive cancelling short-term visas issued to Pakistani citizens, excluding those with long-term, diplomatic, or official visas. The advisory reflects the Indian government's heightened security measures in response to the Pahalgam terror incident, which has placed security forces across the country on high alert.

As per recent data from the Karnataka Home Department, 101 Pakistani nationals currently reside in the state on long-term visas, granted for purposes such as marriage and education. These individuals are not affected by the recent visa revocations.

State Launches Overstay Crackdown

Karnataka authorities have begun identifying Pakistani nationals living within the state for potential deportation. Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that all Superintendents of Police and senior law enforcement personnel have been tasked with compiling lists of Pakistani citizens in their respective districts.

“This initiative stems from the MHA directive to begin deportation of Pakistani nationals. Long-term visa holders will remain unaffected,” Parameshwara clarified during a media interaction.

He added that Pakistani students currently enrolled in Karnataka's educational institutions might also be asked to return, pending verification. “We have communicated the advisory to local police officials. The exact number of Pakistani nationals is under review,” the minister noted.

The move underscores increased vigilance across India, particularly in sensitive states, following the Pahalgam terror strike. “Security has been intensified and we are closely monitoring the situation not only in Karnataka but throughout the country,” Parameshwara said.