On April 22 (Tuesday), terrorists linked to Pakistan attacked tourists in Baisaran Valley, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killing 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, and injuring several others.
In response, the Indian government issued ‘Leave India’ notices to Pakistani nationals, mandating their exit by specific deadlines. Those on SAARC visas were required to leave by April 26 (Saturday), while individuals on medical visas must depart by April 29 (Tuesday). Failure to comply may result in arrest, prosecution, up to three years in jail, a fine of up to ₹3 lakh, or both.
According to the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025, which came into effect on April 4, foreign nationals who overstay their visas, violate visa conditions, or enter restricted areas in India can face severe penalties, including up to three years in prison and a fine of up to ₹3 lakh. The Act specifically states that any foreigner who remains in India beyond the validity of their visa, stays without a valid passport, or violates the conditions of their visa may be punished with imprisonment for up to three years, a fine up to ₹3 lakh, or both. In response to the Pahalgam terror attack, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with the chief ministers of all states on April 25, instructing them to ensure no Pakistani nationals stay in India beyond the set deadline. Following this, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan held a video conference with state chief secretaries, stressing the importance of ensuring that all Pakistani nationals with revoked visas leave India by the prescribed deadline.
The already tense relations between India and Pakistan deteriorated even further following the Pahalgam terror attack. In response, New Delhi implemented a series of retaliatory measures, including the cancellation of visas, while Islamabad retaliated with its own set of countermeasures.