Pahalgam Attack Fallout: 17 Pakistani Nationals in Mumbai Identified, Issued Exit Permits

Mumbai, April 29: In a direct fallout of the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, Indian authorities have identified 17 Pakistani nationals residing in Mumbai and have issued them exit permits, officials confirmed on Monday. The move comes amid heightened security concerns and diplomatic tension following the deadly ambush on Indian security forces.

According to officials from the Maharashtra Home Department, the action was taken as part of a routine national security review conducted after such attacks. These individuals, who were staying in Mumbai on valid long-term visas, have been asked to leave India within a stipulated time frame, following all legal and diplomatic procedures.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directed state authorities to identify and verify Pakistani citizens currently residing in major Indian cities, especially those living on long-term or extended visas. The review is part of a larger national security protocol aimed at mitigating any potential risks during times of heightened cross-border tensions.

An official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated: “There is no evidence yet linking these individuals to any unlawful activity. However, in view of the current national security situation, precautionary steps are being taken.” He added that the individuals in question were fully cooperating with authorities and would be allowed to exit the country peacefully.

The 17 Pakistani nationals include men, women, and elderly individuals who had been residing in Mumbai for various reasons, including family reunification and medical treatment. They were informed of the government’s decision through formal notices and will be escorted to the border or airport for deportation, depending on their circumstances.

The decision has sparked discussions in legal and human rights circles, with some questioning the necessity and fairness of mass exit orders for individuals not involved in any criminal activity. However, government sources maintain that the action is purely preventive and temporary, driven by security imperatives in light of the ongoing investigation into the Pahalgam incident.

The terror attack in Pahalgam, which occurred last week, resulted in the deaths of multiple Indian soldiers and has been widely condemned across the country. Intelligence agencies believe the attack may have been orchestrated by Pakistan-based terror outfits, further straining bilateral relations.

In response, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a strong statement giving Indian forces full autonomy to retaliate, and multiple internal security measures have been ramped up, especially in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

Meanwhile, immigration and foreigner registration offices across India have been directed to intensify scrutiny of foreign nationals, particularly those from countries with ongoing diplomatic or security issues with India.

With investigations ongoing and security on high alert, the situation remains tense. The government has urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities while reaffirming its commitment to national security and law enforcement.