Pakistani Tourists Departing from Attari-Wagah Border
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Synopsis
Following a tragic terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian government has restricted cross-border activities with Pakistan, leading to many Pakistani tourists leaving through the Attari-Wagah border. The situation has prompted urgent appeals for assistance from those affected.
Key Takeaways
- 26 lives lost in a terrorist attack triggered restrictions.
- Sealing of the Attari-Wagah border implemented.
- Indian government expelled Pakistani diplomats.
- Rigorous passport checks by the BSF.
- Concerns raised among exporters due to trade scrutiny.
New Delhi, April 25 (NationPress) In the aftermath of a devastating terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam region that claimed 26 lives, the Indian government swiftly enacted measures to curtail cross-border interactions with Pakistan. Consequently, on Friday, numerous Pakistani tourists were observed departing through the Attari-Wagah border.
Among the most stringent actions taken by the Indian government are the sealing of the Attari-Wagah border and the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
The diplomatic repercussions have been profound; India has downgraded its relations, expelled Pakistani diplomats and military officials, and revoked all visas previously issued to Pakistani citizens.
At the Integrated Check Post (ICP) in Attari, Border Security Force (BSF) personnel are conducting thorough checks of the passports of Pakistani nationals traveling by vehicle. Only after extensive verification are vehicles permitted to advance past security barriers.
In light of these sudden changes, a stream of Pakistani tourists was seen at the Attari-Wagah Border, urgently seeking clarity and assistance.
“My parents are here, and I am sad that I have to leave so early,” expressed a Pakistani tourist at the border.
Another traveler, echoing the feelings of many caught in this diplomatic turmoil, remarked, “An order was issued the night before stating that we must leave India... regardless of our faith, we are all brothers.”
A woman returning to Pakistan with her child shared her challenging situation: “I came to visit my parents, and now I wish to return to Pakistan. I have a child whose passport is Pakistani, while mine is Indian. I got married in Pakistan. I appeal to the government to allow my return on my passport.”
Meanwhile, an Indian citizen voiced concern for his wife: “My wife traveled to Pakistan for a visit. Now, due to the current situation, I had to come and bring her back. The Indian government has announced the closure of the routes.”
While bilateral trade between India and Pakistan has been on hold since August 2019 following Pakistan’s decision to cease trade in response to the abrogation of Article 370, India had continued its trade with Afghanistan via the Attari-Wagah corridor. Now, even this route is under scrutiny, raising alarms among exporters and traders.
