Pakistani woman staying in Bhubaneswar even after visa expiry; police active after Pahalgam attack

A Pakistani woman residing in Bhubaneswar since 2008 has been directed by the Commissionerate Police to leave the city following the expiry of her long-term visa earlier this year. The directive comes amidst tightened regulations for Pakistani nationals in the wake of the horrific Pahalgam Terrorist Attack.

The woman, married to a local Odia resident, has been residing in Bhubaneswar since 2008 under a long-term visa. This visa was valid until 2024. Her application for an exit visa had faced delays with the Commissionerate Police.

Recent Developments

As per recent measures, Bhubaneswar police have issued a notice asking her to vacate the city immediately. It appears efforts to finalise her visa status have been stalled by procedural delays.

Also Read: 12 Pakistanis are in Odisha on long-term visas; process begins to serve exit notices

New Directives Prompt Departure

Recent government directives require all Pakistani nationals to exit India amid heightened tensions following the terrorist attack. The local police have now issued a formal notice asking her to depart Bhubaneswar. 

12 Pakistanis are in Odisha

Meanwhile, reports suggest that at least 12 Pakistani nationals have been residing in Odisha on long-term visas (LTVs). These individuals, who have been living in the state for extended periods, will soon be formally asked to leave the country, officials confirmed.

In compliance with this central directive, the Odisha government has started the formal process to serve exit notices to the 12 Pakistani citizens currently residing in different parts of the state. Authorities are in the process of verifying the legal status, visa duration, and any pending applications for citizenship or asylum that the individuals may have submitted.