Escalating its response to the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, India on Thursday revoked all visas issued to Pakistani nationals, including those for medical treatment, and suspended visa services entirely.
This decision comes in the wake of the actions taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), following a high-level meeting after the Pahalgam attack.
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that, effective April 27, all existing visas granted to Pakistani nationals will be invalidated. This includes visas for various purposes, including tourism and business. However, medical visas, which are often issued for humanitarian reasons, will remain valid for a brief period—only until April 29, 2025.
The MEA's statement read: "All existing valid visas issued by India to Pakistani nationals stand revoked with effect from 27 April 2025. Medical visas issued to Pakistani nationals will be valid only till 29 April 2025."
Furthermore, the Indian government has instructed all Pakistani nationals currently in India to leave the country before the amended visa deadline. The statement emphasized that any extension of stay beyond these dates will not be permitted.
Additionally, the Indian government has advised its citizens to refrain from traveling to Pakistan. Those who are already in Pakistan have been urged to return to India as soon as possible to avoid complications.
The government has reiterated that these measures are being implemented as part of India's broader response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives, including Indian nationals and a Nepali citizen.
This diplomatic move by India is a direct response to the ongoing security concerns arising from cross-border terrorism and tensions with Pakistan following the recent attack.
(This is a developing story. It will be updated.)
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