Sun Apr 27 16:57:10 UTC 2025: ## India Expels Most Pakistani Nationals Following Terror Attack

**Amritsar, India –** Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed, India has expelled the vast majority of Pakistani nationals holding short-term visas. A 48-hour deadline, ending April 27th, 2025, was given for those under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) to leave. While almost all complied, according to a senior Home Ministry official, verification is still underway.

Over 537 Pakistani citizens departed through the Attari-Wagah border crossing in Punjab between April 24th and 27th, with a further 116 arriving from Pakistan on the final day. The Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari was temporarily closed as part of punitive measures, and the SVES scheme was suspended. Pakistani nationals can still leave via air travel through a third country.

Exceptions to the expulsion are being made for those with medical, diplomatic, or long-term visas. The latter category, generally granted to Hindu and Sikh community members seeking citizenship, remains unaffected. One government official stated that exemptions may be considered on compassionate grounds.

While the Home Ministry didn’t release data on the total number of Pakistanis affected by the visa revocation, police in various states report the process largely complete. Delhi Police, who had a list of around 2,500 individuals, reported most were not at their registered addresses, suggesting departure, but further verification is ongoing. Uttar Pradesh Police stated only one Pakistani citizen remained, scheduled to leave on April 30th.

Emotional scenes unfolded at the Attari-Wagah border, with departing Pakistanis expressing condemnation of the Pahalgam attack and their reluctance to leave India. The deadline for those with medical visas is April 29th. The incident highlights escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

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