Amit Shah Orders Deportation of All Pakistani Nationals in India
In a sweeping directive following the Pahalgam terror attack, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has instructed all Chief Ministers across India to identify and deport Pakistani nationals residing in their respective states. The move signals a hardening of India’s security posture as tensions with Pakistan escalate rapidly.
Nationwide Crackdown on Pakistani Residents
The Home Ministry has formally communicated to all state governments the need for immediate action. As per the instructions, local authorities must begin verifying and listing Pakistani nationals present within their jurisdictions, regardless of their visa status or the duration of their stay. The goal, officials say, is to expedite their deportation as a precautionary and security-focused step.
This measure comes as part of a broader national security strategy designed to address cross-border threats and dismantle any logistical networks that may support foreign-backed extremist operations.
Context: The Pahalgam Terror Attack
The directive follows the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including tourists. The attackers, believed to be linked to Pakistani-based terrorist organizations, executed the assault in Army fatigues and reportedly segregated victims based on religious identity before opening fire.
India has since initiated a series of retaliatory and preventive actions aimed at isolating Pakistan diplomatically and tightening internal security.
Measures Already Announced
In addition to the deportation order, the Indian government has:
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Revoked all existing visas issued to Pakistani nationals.
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Suspended all new visa services for Pakistani citizens.
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Downgraded diplomatic engagement with Pakistan.
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Suspended the Indus Waters Treaty indefinitely.
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Closed the Attari land-transit post to Pakistani traffic.
These steps collectively reflect a zero-tolerance stance toward terrorism and any perceived soft-pedaling of extremist threats originating from across the border.
International Reactions and Forward Path
While Pakistan has sharply criticized India’s latest measures, labeling them as hostile and provocative, India has defended its actions as necessary for the protection of national sovereignty and civilian life. Global actors have urged both sides to exercise restraint and reopen channels of diplomatic dialogue.
As the situation develops, the Indian government appears resolute in sending a clear message: it will no longer tolerate threats to its citizens, and those associated—directly or indirectly—with state-sponsored terror will face severe consequences.
