Shillong, Apr 26: The state police have directed all Pakistani nationals currently staying in Meghalaya to leave by April end, following a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs in the wake of the recent terror attack at Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir.
Superintendents of Police (SPs) of East Khasi Hills, East Jaintia Hills, and Ri-Bhoi districts on Saturday issued separate orders to this effect. As per the orders, Pakistani nationals holding medical visas were instructed to exit the country no later than April 29, while those with SAARC visas must depart by April 26.
However, the directive exempts Pakistani nationals holding long-term visas, diplomatic visas, or official visas.
“Failure to comply with the directive shall render such individuals liable to strict action according to the law, including registration of criminal cases,” the SPs stated in their orders.
Police authorities have also urged the public to report the presence of any Pakistani nationals in their vicinity by contacting the Police Control Room by dialing 112.
This directive follows Government of India’s decision to suspend visa services to Pakistani nationals, a move prompted by evidence linking cross-border elements to the massacre of over two dozen tourists at Pahalgam.
The attack has been described as the worst since the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
