New Delhi, June 5, 2025

A Pakistani national who has been residing in Goa since 2016 on a long-term visa has approached the Supreme Court of India seeking relief after the central government’s recent revocation of visas for Pakistani nationals. The petition highlights the complexities faced by individuals with long-standing residence in India following the government’s move to tighten visa norms after the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year.

Background

In April 2025, the Indian government announced the cancellation of all existing visas issued to Pakistani nationals, citing heightened security concerns post the Pahalgam attack. This sudden policy shift has affected several Pakistanis living in India, including those who have lived here for years under long-term visas.

Goa, known for its sizeable foreign resident population, has been monitoring the situation closely. While some Pakistani nationals on short-term visas have already been asked to leave, others holding valid long-term visas many married to Indian citizens or having deep community ties face uncertainty.

The petitioner, represented by senior advocates, has moved the Supreme Court to seek protection against deportation, emphasizing the length of stay and integration into Indian society. The plea requests the court to consider individual circumstances rather than blanket visa cancellations.

Justice Sanjay Karol has acknowledged the petition and scheduled it for urgent hearing. The court’s intervention is seen as a crucial step to balance national security interests with humanitarian and legal considerations.

Implications

This case underscores the challenges faced by long-term foreign residents amid geopolitical tensions. Legal experts note that while the state has a duty to ensure security, due process and individual rights must also be safeguarded. The court’s decision could set a significant precedent impacting visa policy enforcement nationwide.

Goa’s state government has expressed its intent to cooperate with central directives while ensuring humane treatment of foreign residents.

The Supreme Court hearing will clarify the legal framework governing visa cancellations and the rights of affected individuals. Observers expect detailed scrutiny of the government’s policy implementation and possible recommendations for handling similar cases with sensitivity.