NEW DELHI, Apr 28 — Pakistani nationals who fail to leave India by the government’s set deadlines face arrest, prosecution, and up to three years in jail or a fine of Rs 3 lakh, or both, under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.
The government issued ‘Leave India’ notices following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed by Pakistan-linked terrorists.
The deadline for Pakistani nationals holding SAARC visas expired on April 26, while those with medical visas must exit by April 29. Holders of 12 other categories of visas, including business, film, journalist, transit, conference, mountaineering, student, visitor, group tourist, pilgrim, and group pilgrim, must also leave by Sunday.
The new Act, which came into force on April 4, mandates strict penalties for overstaying, violating visa conditions, or trespassing into restricted areas.
“Whoever remains in India beyond the permitted period or violates visa conditions shall be punishable with imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to three lakh rupees or both,” the Act states.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday directed all chief ministers to ensure that no Pakistani national stays in India beyond the deadlines. Shah conveyed the instructions during telephonic conversations with the state heads.
Following Shah’s communication, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan held a video conference with state chief secretaries, urging strict implementation of the deportation orders.
The attack at Pahalgam further worsened already strained ties between India and Pakistan. In response to the killings, New Delhi announced retaliatory measures, including mass visa cancellations, while Islamabad introduced tit-for-tat actions.
