Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has initiated the process of serving exit notices to 12 Pakistani nationals residing in the state on long-term visas (LTVs), following a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). These individuals, who have lived in various parts of the state for extended periods, are now under review amid a nationwide reassessment of foreign nationals residing in India.
The move comes after Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed all Chief Ministers to ensure that no Pakistani citizen remains in India beyond the deadline set by the Centre. On Thursday, the Indian government announced the cancellation of all visas issued to Pakistani nationals effective April 27, in response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists. Indian citizens living in Pakistan have also been advised to return home at the earliest.
Odisha’s home department is currently verifying the legal status, visa duration, and any pending citizenship or asylum applications submitted by the 12 individuals. A senior official confirmed that the process is being carried out in accordance with legal and international protocols.
Pakistani nationals on LTVs are typically subject to strict conditions, including mandatory police reporting and restrictions on employment and movement. However, the recent escalation in security concerns has prompted a thorough review of all such residencies.
Local law enforcement and immigration authorities have been alerted to oversee the repatriation process, which aligns with the Centre’s broader effort to strengthen immigration controls and uphold internal security.
