Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions Leave Families Stranded at Attari-Wagah Border

 New Delhi, April 30, 2025 – As tensions between India and Pakistan intensify following the April 22 massacre in Kashmir’s Pahalgam, where terrorists killed 26 innocent lives, innocent families are bearing the brunt of the diplomatic fallout. India has imposed a strict deadline for Pakistani nationals to leave the country, with the expiration of most short-term visas on April 27 and medical visas set to lapse today, April 29. Since April 24, 537 Pakistanis, including nine diplomats, have departed through the Attari-Wagah border, the sole land crossing between the two nations, with a significant increase in departures reported today as the final deadline looms.

The Indian government’s response to the attack includes revoking visas for Pakistani nationals, affecting 12 categories such as visa on arrival, business, film, journalist, transit, conference, mountaineering, student, visitor, group tourist, pilgrim, and group pilgrim. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed chief ministers to identify and deport Pakistani nationals within their jurisdictions. While some have exited via airports, the Attari-Wagah border has become a scene of confusion and heartbreak, with families arriving in droves, suitcases tied to vehicle roofs, desperate to comply.

Pakistan has retaliated with similar measures, forcing Indian nationals to leave, resulting in 850 Indians, including 14 diplomats, returning home since April 24. Reports indicate no extension of the deadline has been authorized by police officials across Indian states, leaving many with no choice but to depart. The emotional toll is palpable, with families torn apart by the sudden policy shift.

Under the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025, Pakistanis overstaying face severe consequences: arrest, prosecution, and potential jail terms of up to three years or a fine of up to three lakh rupees, or both. India’s firm stance reflects its resolve against what it deems Pakistan’s refusal to curb cross-border terrorism. At the Attari-Wagah border, the sight of distressed families caught in this diplomatic crossfire underscores the human cost of the escalating conflict.