TV
In the wake of heightened national security concerns following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the Odisha government has moved swiftly to tighten its vigilance against foreign nationals residing illegally or overstaying in the state. The Director General of Police (DGP) YB Khurania on Monday informed that notices to leave the country have been served to 12 Pakistani nationals currently identified within Odisha.
Addressing the media, the DGP stated that one Pakistani citizen has already left Odisha after being served the notice. He clarified that those who hold valid long-term visas or whose visa extension applications are under process are being considered separately.
"We are awaiting further directives regarding their cases," the DGP added, highlighting that authorities are proceeding cautiously in line with national and international protocols.
Meanwhile, Odisha’s Panchayati Raj Minister, Rabi Naik, informed that the identification process of Bangladeshi and Pakistani infiltrators is actively underway at the panchayat (village council) level.
According to him, the Odisha government has already prepared preliminary lists of suspicious foreign nationals.
"We have detailed information about where these individuals are staying, which villages or cities they are residing in, and the nature of their activities," the Minister said.
In light of the recent terror attack, the Odisha government has ramped up efforts to identify and act against unauthorized residents. Individuals living without valid visas or overstaying their permits are being thoroughly screened.
Identity documents such as Aadhaar cards and Voter ID cards are being cross-verified to detect any forgery or illegal acquisition.
The authorities are also actively seeking inputs and consultations from local elected representatives and community members to strengthen the verification process.
"Very soon, a consolidated list of identified infiltrators will be submitted to the Home Department," the Minister assured.
Rabi Naik reiterated the Odisha government’s firm stand on deportation, stating, "Those identified as Bangladeshi and Pakistani infiltrators will be sent back. There is no compromise on the state's internal security."
This proactive move reflects Odisha’s commitment to national security and aligns with broader efforts being undertaken across various states to root out unauthorized foreign nationals, particularly in sensitive times.
Further investigations are ongoing, and security measures have been intensified across key areas to prevent any potential threats arising from illegal stay or activities by foreign nationals.
