The Madhya Pradesh Police has directed Pakistani nationals residing in the state to leave India by April 27, 2025, in compliance with a central government directive. Those failing to depart by the stipulated date will face deportation proceedings, officials confirmed on Friday.
Inspector General of Police (Intelligence) Anshuman Singh informed The Pioneer that the number of Pakistani nationals residing in Madhya Pradesh is relatively small compared to other states, largely because the Union Home Ministry has granted exemptions to individuals who hold long-term visas (LTVs). "Currently, there are more than 200 Pakistani nationals present in Madhya Pradesh. However, only about 15 individuals are on long-term visas," Singh said.
He further explained that under the fresh directive, visas for those without LTV protection will expire effective April 27, after which authorities will begin formal deportation procedures. "We have already issued instructions to all district police units to notify concerned individuals about the deadline. They have been clearly informed that they must leave India by the specified date," Singh added.
The move is part of a larger national exercise initiated by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), aimed at regulating the stay of foreign nationals following heightened security and immigration concerns. Individuals who continue to remain illegally after their visa expiry may face detention under the Foreigners Act, with deportation carried out through diplomatic channels.
Senior police officials clarified that the exemption for long-term visa holders applies primarily to those who have migrated due to religious persecution or humanitarian grounds and who are in the process of applying for citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
However, all others not covered under such exemptions are required to exit Indian territory immediately.
Sources indicate that police units across districts including Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Ujjain, where Pakistani nationals are known to reside, have been closely monitoring the compliance with the directive. Special cells have been constituted at the district level to track departures and ensure adherence to the Home Ministry's orders.
Meanwhile, police headquarters in Bhopal has established a coordination desk to assist in the documentation and procedural formalities for those leaving voluntarily before the deadline. In cases where individuals fail to comply, the process of identification, detention, and deportation will begin immediately after April 27.
