Pahalgam terror attack: Amit Shah says, 'Identify Pakistanis, send them back'

A day after cancelling all existing visas issued to Pakistani nationals, Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed all Chief Ministers to identify and deport Pakistani citizens residing in India. The directive came following a high-level security meeting in response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack. 

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In a decisive move, the Indian government asked all Pakistani nationals to leave the country by April 27. Those in India on medical visas have been granted an extension until April 29. This order follows the Cabinet Committee on Security’s decision to intensify actions against Pakistan after the brutal attack in Pahalgam. 

The Ministry of External Affairs also announced the immediate suspension of all visa services for Pakistani nationals. Indian citizens have been strongly advised against travelling to Pakistan. This decision is part of a broader diplomatic and strategic response by India, which also includes suspending the 1960 Indus Water Treaty and closing the Attari land-transit post.

The terror attack in Pahalgam shocked the nation, as Pakistan-backed terrorists reportedly targeted Hindu tourists. Eyewitnesses recounted that the attackers selectively shot Hindu men and even forced some to recite religious verses before executing them. A survivor reported that the terrorists claimed their religion was under threat due to Hindus, adding a chilling religious undertone to the violence.