Pakistani Nationals Begin Repatriation at Wagah Border Ahead of Deadline Following Pahalgam Attack

In the aftermath of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 civilian lives, Pakistani nationals have begun arriving at the Wagah-Attari border to return home before the deadline set by Indian authorities.

The Indian government responded to the attack — which occurred in the popular tourist destination often referred to as "Mini Switzerland" — by suspending all visa services for Pakistani citizens. Those currently in India on short-term visas were given until Sunday to leave, while medical visas remain valid until Tuesday. In a reciprocal move, Pakistan has suspended SAARC visas for Indian nationals.

Near the India-Pakistan border, NDTV reporters observed several Pakistani families waiting at Wagah to cross over. The border, previously a key trade and ceremonial route between the two nations, has now been closed — including the daily flag-lowering ceremony that typically draws large crowds on both sides.

“I’m heading back to Pakistan. I received word about the Kashmir incident and was instructed to leave India within 48 hours. So, I’m returning,” one Pakistani national told NDTV.

Indian authorities have initiated logistical preparations for the repatriation process. In Uttar Pradesh, local officials have begun identifying Pakistani nationals residing in various cities to facilitate their departure.

Though no formal orders have been issued by the central government, the police headquarters has directed all districts to begin collecting information and completing necessary formalities, confirmed Director General of Police Prashant Kumar.

A high-level meeting was also held at the residence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, attended by Home Department Principal Secretary Sanjay Prasad and DGP Kumar, to coordinate state-level response measures.

India has long accused Pakistan of harboring and supporting terrorism, labeling it the "global epicentre of terrorism." In the wake of the Pahalgam incident, India has once again pointed fingers at Islamabad and has taken further steps by suspending the Indus Water Treaty — a historic water-sharing agreement between the two nations. Pakistan, in turn, has suspended all bilateral agreements with India, including the 1972 Simla Agreement.