TV
In a recent development following the Union Government’s directive to identify Pakistani nationals residing in India without valid documentation or prolonged visa extensions, at least two Pakistani women living in Odisha have come under the scanner. Notices have been served to them by the local police, asking them to leave the country, official sources said on Tuesday.
The most recent case emerged from Berhampur, where a 50-year-old Pakistani woman, identified as Rahima Ara, has been issued a formal notice by the police.
According to sources, Rahima has been living in the Military Line area near Bada Masjid under the jurisdiction of Berhampur Town Police Station for over 25 years. She originally came to India after marrying an Indian man and has since been residing with her family. Her husband passed away a few years ago, and Rahima now lives with her younger daughter, as her two elder daughters are already married.
Following the Centre’s instructions, local authorities collected data on all Pakistani nationals currently residing in the state. Upon verifying the details of Rahima's residency, a notice was issued asking her to leave India, pending further investigation into the validity and duration of her visa. Police officials have confirmed that her documents, including her visa and its expiry status, are under review. However, no official response has yet been received from Rahima or her family regarding the notice.
Second Case From Balasore
Meanwhile, a second case has surfaced in the Soro region of Balasore district, involving a woman named Razia Sultana, who originally hails from Pakistan but settled in Odisha after marrying a local resident. Police visited Razia's residence recently to serve the departure notice, but she was not present at the time.
Her family members were spoken to by the police, and it was later reported that Razia had gone to meet the Balasore Superintendent of Police seeking clarity and legal options.
Sources claim she has built a life in the Soro locality. However, with the fresh enforcement of laws governing foreign nationals' stay in the country, her status is now under review.
These developments come amid growing efforts by the Indian government to tighten immigration norms and enforce visa compliance.
As investigations continue, both women await further legal instructions, even as local authorities maintain that all action is being taken in accordance with the law and under the guidance of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
