Indian Government Cancels Visas for Pakistani Muslims Following April 22 Terror Attack

In response to a deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, India has made a strong decision regarding visa rules for Pakistani citizens. The Indian government announced that all valid visas given to Pakistani Muslims will be canceled starting April 27, 2025. However, Hindu citizens from Pakistan who hold Long Term Visas (LTVs) can still stay in India. Here’s everything you need to know in simple words.

Visas for Pakistani Muslims Cancelled from April 27

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that from April 27, 2025, all existing visas for Pakistani citizens will be considered canceled. This move comes as a direct result of the recent terrorist attack that killed 26 innocent people.

However, there’s an exception for medical visas, which will remain valid until April 29, 2025. This gives a little extra time for those who are in India for medical treatment.

Hindu Pakistani Citizens with Long Term Visas Are Not Affected

The Indian government made it clear that this decision does not affect Hindu citizens from Pakistan who are staying in India with Long Term Visas (LTVs). These visas will still be valid, and these individuals do not need to leave India.

The Ministry released an official statement saying that only regular visas are being canceled, and not the LTVs held by Hindu Pakistanis. This shows that India is offering support to minority communities from Pakistan.

What Happens to Pakistani Citizens Currently in India?

If a Pakistani citizen is currently in India and their visa gets canceled, they must leave India before their visa expires. If they stay beyond the expiry date, they may face legal action or deportation.

The Indian authorities are expected to closely monitor the situation and take action if any Pakistani citizen stays in the country after their visa is no longer valid.

Travel Warning for Indian Citizens

Along with canceling Pakistani visas, the Indian government has also advised Indian citizens not to travel to Pakistan. This is due to safety concerns and rising tensions between the two countries.

Indian citizens who are already in Pakistan have been told to return to India as soon as possible for their own safety.

Why Did India Take This Step?

This strict action comes after a terrorist attack that happened in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, where 26 innocent tourists were killed. The group The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility for the attack. TRF is believed to be connected with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a terrorist group based in Pakistan.

This attack deeply shocked the nation and led to strong actions by the Indian government.

More Actions Taken by India After the Attack

Apart from canceling visas, India has taken several other steps in response to the attack:

• Pakistani military officials were expelled from India.
• The Indus River Water Treaty was suspended.
• The Attari-Wagah border crossing was closed immediately.

These actions show how seriously India is responding to the recent security threats.

Conclusion

India’s recent decision to cancel visas for Pakistani Muslims is a major step taken in the wake of a tragic terrorist attack. While Hindu Pakistani citizens with Long Term Visas can continue staying in India, others must leave once their visa expires. These changes are part of a broader set of actions taken by the Indian government to ensure national security and protect its people.

For Indian citizens, it is important to avoid traveling to Pakistan right now. Those already in Pakistan are advised to return safely. These updates show how quickly the situation can change due to international tensions and security issues.

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