India Permits Pakistani Nationals to Exit via Attari-Wagah Border Amid Tensions
By New Delhi Post Desk, New Delhi:
The Indian government has revised its earlier directive, allowing Pakistani nationals to leave India through the Attari-Wagah border until further notice, following the border closure on April 30, 2025. However, Pakistan has yet to open its gates, leaving many stranded despite the relief measure, which comes in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that heightened bilateral tensions.
Revised Order Brings Relief to Stranded Pakistanis
The Home Ministry’s latest order, issued on May 1, 2025, modifies its previous directive that had mandated the closure of the Attari-Wagah border on April 30. The new order states, “Pakistani nationals may be allowed to exit India to go into Pakistan from the Integrated Check Post at Attari till further orders, with due clearance.” This decision offers a reprieve to scores of Pakistani nationals stranded at the border, but sources indicate that Pakistan has not yet opened its border gates to facilitate their entry.
Mass Exodus Follows Pahalgam Terror Attack
The border closure and subsequent deportations were triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which killed 25 tourists and a Kashmiri local, an act India attributes to Pakistan-based terrorists. In the six days following the Centre’s initial directive, 786 Pakistani nationals, including 55 diplomats and their support staff, exited India via the Attari-Wagah crossing, while 1,465 Indians returned from Pakistan. The government had set deadlines for those with short-term, SAARC, and medical visas to leave by April 27 and April 29, respectively.
Humanitarian Concerns Amid Deportations
The deportations have sparked significant humanitarian concerns, separating families and affecting long-term Pakistani residents in India. Many, including women who have lived in India for 30–40 years after marrying Indian citizens, were among those deported. Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti urged the Centre to reconsider, stating on X, “Many affected are women who came to India 30–40 years ago, married Indian citizens, raised families, and have long been part of our society,” highlighting the “serious humanitarian concerns” arising from the move.
Tensions Persist as Pakistan Delays Border Access
Despite India’s revised order, the lack of reciprocal action from Pakistan has left many Pakistani nationals in limbo at the border. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier instructed state chief ministers to ensure no Pakistani nationals remained in India past the April 30 deadline, reflecting the government’s firm stance post the Pahalgam attack. The ongoing standoff underscores the deep-seated tensions between the two nations, with calls from welfare groups and politicians for exemptions on humanitarian grounds gaining traction.
