New Delhi, 28th April: Around 5,000 Pakistani nationals are still residing in the national capital, Delhi, according to an Intelligence Bureau (IB) report. The IB has recently handed over a detailed list of these individuals to the Delhi Police Special Branch, instructing that they must leave India within a set deadline.
Sources indicate that many of these Pakistanis have overstayed their visas, while some, who had arrived on medical visas for treatment, have failed to return even after completing their procedures.
In recent years, India has emerged as a major hub for medical tourism. According to official figures, Pakistani nationals accounted for approximately 6% of all foreign patients who visited India on medical visas in 2023. Prominent hospitals like AIIMS, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, and Fortis have been popular choices for patients from Pakistan seeking advanced healthcare services.
Speaking on the matter, a senior police officer stated:
"All Pakistani nationals overstaying beyond their visa validity are being served notices to leave immediately. Considering national security concerns, the process is being expedited."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also directed security agencies to stay vigilant, especially in light of recent terror attacks, and to strictly monitor the activities of foreign nationals.
Another senior Delhi Police official emphasized that strict legal action would soon be initiated against those whose documents have expired or whose activities are deemed suspicious.
Given the current security climate, the Indian government is reportedly considering tightening regulations around medical visas to ensure that medical tourism does not become a loophole for extended or unauthorized stays.
Deadline: All identified Pakistani nationals have been ordered to leave India within 30 days.
Agency
