Pakistanis Begin Return From India Via Wagah Border Amid Rising Tensions Post-Pahalgam Attack
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that claimed the lives of 26 civilians. In a strong diplomatic response, India has suspended all visa services for Pakistani nationals and directed them to leave the country by Sunday, with medical visas valid until Tuesday.
As the deadline approaches, Pakistani nationals have begun arriving at the Wagah-Attari border in Amritsar to return home. NDTV reported visuals of families waiting near the border, which is now witnessing an unusual rush. The Wagah border, historically a site for daily ceremonies and trade exchange, has been completely shut, halting tourism and bilateral trade.
One Pakistani national told, “I received information about the terror attack in Kashmir and was asked to leave India within 48 hours. So, I am heading back.”
Authorities across India, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, have started facilitating the return process. Director General of Police Prashant Kumar stated that instructions have been issued from the police headquarters to collect data on Pakistani nationals residing in various districts. Although formal orders from the central government are awaited, the process has been initiated. A late-night meeting was reportedly held at the residence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, attended by senior officials, including Principal Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad and DGP Kumar.
The diplomatic fallout has not been limited to visa suspension. India has also halted the Indus Water Treaty, a significant water-sharing agreement with Pakistan, accusing the latter of being the “global epicentre of terrorism.” In retaliation, Pakistan has suspended all bilateral pacts with India, including the historic Simla Agreement of 1972, and SAARC visa facilities for Indian nationals.
This latest development marks a sharp decline in already fragile relations between the two countries. While the political and diplomatic arenas brace for further consequences, it’s the civilians — many on medical or familial visits — who are bearing the immediate brunt of the cross-border tension.
