Bihar and Karnataka begin deportation of Pakistani nationals after Centre's directive

Bihar and Karnataka have started the process of deporting Pakistani nationals residing in their states, following an advisory issued by the Union Home Ministry. The action comes after the Narendra Modi-led government ordered the removal of all Pakistani citizens from India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people dead.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary confirmed that the state administration is actively identifying Pakistani nationals living in Bihar to deport them promptly. "We are working continuously under the Central Government's directions. Pakistani nationals must return under all circumstances," Choudhary stated, stressing the need for national unity over political divides during these times.

Similarly, Karnataka’s Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara said that instructions have been given to district Superintendents of Police to identify and initiate deportation processes for Pakistani nationals, except for certain exempted categories. He noted that while the exact number of such residents is not yet clear, immediate action is underway in compliance with the Centre's directive.

The Centre’s move follows a wider crackdown after the Pahalgam attack, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah directing all Chief Ministers to swiftly identify and remove Pakistani citizens from their respective states. The decision is part of the steps taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security, which also led to the suspension of visa services for Pakistani nationals.

According to the government’s orders, all Pakistani citizens must leave India by April 27. Those who are in the country on medical visas have been granted a slight extension and are required to exit by April 29.

In addition to deportations, the Ministry of External Affairs has strongly advised Indian citizens to avoid travelling to Pakistan until further notice, citing security concerns and the prevailing tensions between the two nations.