Millions of Pakistani nationals, including those married to Indian citizens, are facing emotional separations after India’s recent visa crackdown, following a deadly attack in Kashmir that has escalated tensions between the two countries.

The crackdown, which began on April 29, 2025, targets Pakistani nationals living in India under the No Obligation to Return to India (NORI) scheme. These individuals, many of whom are married to Indian citizens, were given little notice before being deported. The move follows a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which India attributes to Pakistan-based militants, though Pakistan denies involvement.

Sara Khan, a Pakistani woman married to an Indian man, was forced to leave her newborn child behind as she was deported to Pakistan. Her father-in-law, Ghulam Masoor, expressed deep frustration, stating, “In our country, there has been an act of terrorism. But the government is punishing its own citizens.”

Similarly, Yasmeen Bibi was abruptly taken from her home in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir, leaving behind her four children, who had no idea what was happening. “My daughter is crying since last night. And four other children are at home, with no knowledge of what is happening,” she said.

The impact of the visa crackdown has been devastating for families. In Rajouri, a two-year-old girl fell seriously ill after her mother was deported back to Pakistan. Anjum Tanweer, the father, condemned the expulsion, asking, “What is my fault? My wife got a visa after six years and she had to leave after six days.”

The Indian government has defended the visa revocations as a security measure in response to the Pahalgam attack. Home Minister Amit Shah has directed states to identify and expel Pakistani nationals holding various visa types, including those on tourist, business, and student visas. However, this decision has sparked widespread criticism, with families and social media users questioning the fairness of the action.

A viral video showing a woman tearfully bidding farewell at the Attari-Wagah border has captured the emotional toll of the crackdown. In the video, she pleads, “Whatever happened there is wrong, but we should not be punished for this…” Her heartfelt appeal has resonated with many, sparking calls to reconsider such blanket measures.

The ongoing visa crackdown has not only strained India-Pakistan relations but has also deeply affected families who are caught in the political crossfire. As tensions continue to rise, the human cost of the political decisions made in the wake of the Kashmir attack is becoming all too clear.