In line with the Union Government’s recent directive to identify and act against Pakistani nationals residing in India without valid documentation, at least two women in Odisha have been served formal deportation notices, according to police sources.
The latest case involves 50-year-old Rahima Ara, a Pakistani national living in the Military Line area near Bada Masjid in Berhampur for over 25 years. Rahima, who came to India after marrying an Indian citizen, remained in the country following her husband’s death. She currently resides with her younger daughter, while her elder daughters are married and living separately.
Authorities said her documents, including visa status and validity, are under detailed review. Acting on central guidelines, local police issued a notice to Rahima asking her to leave the country pending the outcome of the verification process. So far, she or her family have not officially responded to the notice.
A similar situation has emerged in the Soro area of Balasore district, where Razia Sultana, another Pakistani national married to an Indian, was also issued a notice to depart. Police attempted to serve the notice at her residence, but she was not present. Her family informed officers that Razia had gone to meet the Balasore Superintendent of Police to seek clarification on her legal status and possible next steps.
Razia is reported to have established a stable life in the locality over the years. However, under the Centre’s intensified enforcement of immigration laws, her residency is now under legal scrutiny.
These developments reflect a broader national move to ensure all foreign nationals are residing in India with proper documentation and within legal boundaries. Authorities emphasized that all actions are being conducted lawfully under the supervision of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
