Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has started the process of issuing exit notices to 12 Pakistani nationals living in the state on long-term visas (LTVs), following a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India. This action is part of a nationwide reassessment of foreign nationals residing in India under humanitarian grounds or special circumstances.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah personally reached out to the Chief Ministers of all states, urging them to identify Pakistani nationals within their jurisdictions and ensure their timely repatriation. State governments have been instructed to review the visa status and legal standing of these individuals to ensure compliance with immigration and national security protocols.
In response to these directives, Odisha authorities have formally initiated the process to serve exit notices to the 12 Pakistani nationals living in various districts throughout the state. These individuals have reportedly resided in Odisha for extended periods under LTV provisions.
A senior official from the Odisha Home Department stated, “We have received clear instructions from the Ministry of Home Affairs to begin the repatriation process. All necessary legal steps are being taken to ensure compliance with both national and international guidelines.”
Pakistani nationals in India on long-term visas are typically subject to strict conditions, including regular police reporting, movement restrictions, and prohibitions on employment without permission. Recent security assessments have prompted the Centre to reassess all such residencies.
While the identities and locations of these individuals remain undisclosed for security reasons, officials assure that their exit will be monitored and conducted with due diligence. Law enforcement agencies, including local police and immigration authorities, are on alert to oversee the process.
This development is part of a broader central government initiative aimed at strengthening national security and streamlining immigration policies. The presence of Pakistani nationals in India, particularly those on LTVs, has come under increased scrutiny in recent months due to heightened security assessments.
Similar actions are anticipated in other states housing Pakistani nationals under comparable visa arrangements. Authorities in Odisha are currently collaborating with central agencies to ensure the smooth and orderly execution of the repatriation process, reaffirming the state’s commitment to national directives and internal security objectives.
