Heightening its diplomatic reaction to the latest terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, India has cancelled all visas granted to Pakistani nationals. These include medical visas, which have now been allowed a brief validity extension until April 29, 2025. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) affirmed the development on Thursday, indicating that visa services for Pakistani nationals have been completely halted.
MEA Implements Cabinet Committee’s Directive
The move is an outcome of a package of action adopted by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in response to the deadly attack carried out in Pahalgam, which saw several civilians die. The Ministry asserted:
“Valid visas held by Pakistani citizens given by India are revoked effective from 27 April 2025. Pakistani citizens’ medical visas will expire on 29 April 2025.”
The move represents a hardline diplomatic approach by New Delhi, emphasizing escalating tensions in the wake of recent escalations of terror-related violence.
Pakistani Nationals Directed to Leave India
The MEA has also ordered all Pakistani nationals who are in India at present to depart prior to the new visa validity expiration period.
“All Pakistani nationals who are still in India should depart India before visas expire, as now revised,” the MEA release further stated.
Travel Advisory for Indian Citizens
In a simultaneous action, the government has asked Indian nationals not to travel to Pakistan. Existing Indians in the neighbouring country have been instructed to return to India at the earliest in light of the prevailing situation.
Overall, this mass cancellation of visas clearly indicates India’s strong stance in the wake of cross-border terrorism; moreover, the government is prioritizing national security above all else.
