As the deadline for Pakistani citizens to leave India expired on Sunday, 536 Pakistanis returned to their homeland, while 849 Indian nationals crossed back into India through the Wagah border.
Many families on both sides of the border remain hopeful of eventually returning to their homes. Meanwhile, amid rising tensions, India instructed farmers in the border areas of Indian Punjab to harvest their crops within two days.
The Border Security Force (BSF) issued directives in the villages of Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, and Fazilka districts, urging farmers to vacate fields near the Zero Line within 48 hours.
Why Were So Many Pakistanis in India?
- Overstayed their visas accidentally.
- Completed jail terms but were awaiting transportation back home.
- Been stuck due to complicated legal or immigration issues.
Some were even caught up by the COVID-19 travel restrictions that made crossing the border nearly impossible for a long time.
Read more: Pakistan Orders Indian PSL 10 Crew to Exit in 48 Hours
Homecoming at Wagah Border
On the day of the return, emotions ran high at the Wagah Border crossing near Lahore. According to reports, Pakistani officials ensured that everyone completed health screenings and immigration procedures smoothly to avoid any hiccups during this delicate moment.
One elderly man, struggling to hold back tears, shared that he hadn’t seen his family in over three years. “Every second apart felt like a year,” he said with a trembling voice. Another young woman, who had travelled with her small children, described the experience as “returning to life itself.”
How Pakistan Facilitated Their Return
Pakistani authorities worked closely with their Indian counterparts to ensure a safe and orderly return. This cooperation between the two countries shows that, despite political tensions, humanity can still find a way to shine through.
Some important steps included:
- Prioritising the repatriation of women, children and elderly prisoners or stranded visitors.
- Ensuring proper documentation and clearances to make the transition smooth.
- Providing medical checkups and transport services once the nationals entered Pakistan.
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