MUMBAI: Following the Centre’s directives to deport Pakistani citizens after the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack, the Maharashtra government has taken action, instructing them to leave the country immediately.
Data shows that there are 5,053 Pakistani citizens currently residing in the state of Maharashtra. nagpur has the highest concentration at 2,458 individuals, followed by 393 in Jalgaon, 293 in navi Mumbai, 290 in Pimpri Chinchwad, 117 in Amravati, and 14 in Mumbai.
Interestingly, search operations have revealed that 107 Pakistani nationals in the state are untraceable. The government of India has suspended all 27 types of visas that were previously issued to Pakistani citizens for various purposes as of April 27.
The Central government has instructed state authorities to identify Pakistani citizens and ensure that they leave not just the state but the country as well.
State Home Minister, Yogesh Kadam, stated that police are actively searching for Pakistani citizens across Maharashtra. “we are working to trace the Pakistani nationals in the state. while most of them have been located, some remain untraceable. we have advised Pakistani citizens with short-term or SARAK visas to leave the country. Those with medical visas can remain until April 30 to complete their treatment. As we continue gathering information, the final count of Pakistani citizens in Maharashtra may change,” Kadam explained.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that efforts are underway to collect information on Pakistani citizens in the state. “Local police stations are involved in this effort. Individuals who overstay their visas will face strict consequences. we will not spare anyone,” Fadnavis stated.
Notably, as many as 26 people, mainly tourists, were killed on Tuesday in a terror attack.
