71 Pakistani citizens in Kannur, total of 104 in Kerala; mostly long-term visa holders

KANNUR: In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, the police have taken a count of Pakistani nationals in Kerala on the instructions of the Union Ministry of External Affairs. Out of the total 104 Pakistani nationals, 71 are in Kannur district. Of these, 68 are on long-term visas. The rest are those whose long-term visas have expired and whose documents have been lost.

Many of them came to India years ago and are living with their families. Most of them returned to India after going to Pakistan and obtaining citizenship under special circumstances. Some have relatives and friends in India. Most of them have applied for Indian citizenship and have submitted applications for visa renewal.

It is indicated that they will not have to leave the country in the current situation. The police are checking the documents. The Special Branch and the Commissioner's Office are jointly handling the matter.

In India since the 60s

Most of the Pakistani citizens here have been permanent residents of India since the 1960s. Most of them are above the age of 60. There are both women and men. Time has been given till the 27th of this month to submit and collect information based on legal possibilities.

"No one has come to Kannur district on visiting visas or other purposes. Most of them are here on long-term visas. The police are checking the documents. If anything is found to be against the facts, action will be taken. If not, they may be able to continue in the country."

-P. Nidin Raj

Kannur City Police Commissioner