'Reconsider decision to deport Pakistanis married to Indians'

The government's decision to deport Pakistani nationals has left many families in J&K devastated as several women married to Kashmiris for decades have to leave their husbands and children behind before the deadline in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.

Calling it a "humanitarian crisis", former CM Mehbooba Mufti said many of those who have been asked to leave have lived here for decades.

Those who came back from Pakistan following Rehab policy also affected

On Tuesday, officials sent a group of around 35 such people by road to the Attari border from where they have been asked to cross back to Pakistan. They were escorted by government officials. However, they were yet to reach Attari till late Tuesday night. "This group of people includes those who had long-term visas and those who came back from Pakistan following the rehabilitation programme of the government in 2010," said a senior police official.

"I am a resident of India now and have a life here. Why should I go," asked Abu Bakar, who has all the documents including a passport, domicile certificate, election card, but still has been asked to leave. "I voted in the last election. We are also eligible for nomination to J&K assembly after passing the Reorganization Act."

"Most of the affected people are women who came to India 30-40 years ago, married Indian citizens, raised families, and have long been part of our society," said Mufti, adding, "We urge the government to reconsider this decision, adopt a compassionate approach."