In adherence to directives issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Odisha government has initiated the process of serving exit notices to 12 Pakistani nationals residing on long-term visas (LTVs) in the state.
This move comes as part of a nationwide reassessment of foreign nationals staying in India amidst heightened security concerns.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah earlier directed all Chief Ministers to ensure that no Pakistani nationals remain in the country beyond their permitted duration. This instruction follows India’s recent decision to revoke all visas issued to Pakistani nationals starting April 27, amidst escalating tensions over the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists.
Authorities in Odisha are currently verifying the legal status, visa durations, and any pending applications for citizenship or asylum submitted by the 12 individuals in question. According to a senior official from the state’s home department, “We are following all necessary legal procedures to ensure the process adheres to national and international protocols.”
The MHA has instructed state governments to review the status of Pakistani nationals under strict immigration and security protocols. Residents on LTVs are typically subject to conditions including regular police reporting, movement restrictions, and employment bans without prior authorisation. Recent security evaluations have, however, prompted the central government to reassess all such residencies.
The identities and locations of these individuals have not been disclosed due to security concerns. Local law enforcement and immigration authorities have been placed on alert to oversee the implementation of the exit notices with utmost diligence.
Odisha’s coordinated action reflects a broader national strategy to tighten immigration control mechanisms and reinforce internal security protocols. Similar measures are expected in other states hosting Pakistani nationals under LTVs.
