By The Sampadak Express
The Government of India has issued a strict ultimatum to Pakistani nationals currently in the country, warning that failure to exit by the specified deadline will result in imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to Rs 3 lakh, or both. The directive comes in the wake of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists. The attack is believed to have been carried out by Pakistan-linked terrorists.
In response, the Centre has issued a ‘Leave India’ notice to Pakistani citizens, requiring those on SAARC visas to exit by April 26, and those on medical visas by April 29. The directive applies to 12 categories of visas, including visa on arrival, business, film, journalist, transit, conference, mountaineering, student, visitor, tourist group, pilgrim, and group pilgrim visas.
The enforcement is backed by the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, which came into effect on April 4. Under this law, overstaying a visa, entering restricted areas, or violating visa conditions can lead to jail time or heavy penalties. The Act states that any foreign national who stays beyond the validity of their visa, lacks proper travel documents, or breaches any visa condition is liable for prosecution.
Following the Pahalgam attack, Union Home Minister Amit Shah personally reached out to chief ministers across India, directing them to ensure the strict implementation of the order. A high-level video conference was also held by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan with state chief secretaries to oversee compliance.
Diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan have sharply deteriorated following the attack. In addition to the visa crackdown, India has announced several retaliatory measures, including the suspension of the 1960 Indus Water Treaty.
The government has made it clear that no leniency will be shown to those who violate the new immigration norms.
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