A total of 537 Pakistani nationals, including nine diplomats and officials, departed from India via the Attari-Wagah border in the four days starting April 24, as the deadline for holders of short-term visas came to an end. This move follows the Indian government’s directive after a deadly terror attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, attributed to Pakistan-linked militants. The attack, which killed 26 people, prompted India to revoke visas for Pakistani nationals in 12 specific categories.

Among the returnees, 237 left India on April 29, with 81 crossing on April 26 and 191 on April 25. Similarly, 850 Indians returned to India during the same period, with many coming back from Pakistan’s Attari-Wagah border. The government’s swift response was part of measures to address rising tensions following the attack, and to enforce the deadline for short-term visa holders to leave India. These visa categories included those for tourists, students, and business travelers.

While most Pakistani nationals returned through the land border, some may have left through airports, as there are no direct flights between India and Pakistan. Other regions, such as Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Kerala, have also seen Pakistani nationals comply with the exit deadline.

The diplomatic situation remains tense, with both nations taking reciprocal actions. India has also withdrawn its defense attaché from Islamabad, further escalating the diplomatic row.