Pakistani Woman in Bhubaneswar to Leave India Amid Deportation Drive

Bhubaneswar: In line with the Centre’s stern diplomatic measures against Pakistan following the recent terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, a Pakistani woman residing in Bhubaneswar has been directed to leave India within 48 hours.

The woman, who had been living in the Odisha capital on a long-term visa since 2008 after marrying an Indian national working as an AC mechanic, had applied for a visa renewal earlier this year. Her application, however, was rejected, prompting her to seek permission from the Indian government to return to Pakistan.

Sources said her departure clearance was granted after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) served her a formal notice following the terror attack on April 22 in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadows, which claimed the lives of 26 people. She is now preparing to return to Pakistan as per the deadline.

According to officials, a total of 12 Pakistani nationals were residing in various parts of Odisha. Of them, four have already left the country, while the remaining eight, including the woman from Bhubaneswar, have been ordered to exit India by April 27.

The Home Ministry, acting on a five-point action plan formulated during a recent Cabinet Committee on Security meeting, has instructed all states to identify and deport Pakistani nationals. Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday directed all Chief Ministers to ensure strict compliance with the measure.

As part of the broader diplomatic response, India has cancelled all valid visas issued to Pakistani citizens effective April 27, except for medical visas, which will remain valid until April 29, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed.

The Centre’s action plan also includes the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, closure of the Attari-Wagah border, declaring Pakistan’s defence advisors as persona non grata, and curtailing diplomatic staff from both sides.

This deportation directive marks a significant escalation in India’s stance following one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in recent years.