Pakistan Abandons Citizens: No Entry at Attari-Wagah as Border Remains Shut

Pakistan Abandons Citizens: Attari-Wagah Border Closure Strands Nationals
The Attari-Wagah border, a historic crossing between India and Pakistan, has been completely shut since May 1, 2025, leaving dozens of Pakistani nationals stranded in India. This closure, triggered by escalating tensions after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, has seen Pakistan refuse to accept its citizens, including those with valid documentation, creating a humanitarian crisis at the border.

Fallout of the Pahalgam Attack
The Pahalgam massacre, which killed 26 people, prompted India to issue a "Leave India" notice for Pakistani nationals on short-term visas, with an initial deadline of April 27, later extended to April 30. Over 911 Pakistanis left via Attari-Wagah in the week prior, but Pakistan’s sudden border closure on May 1 halted further crossings. India’s measures, including visa cancellations and suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, reflect a hardline stance against Pakistan’s alleged role in the attack.

Stranded Citizens and Human Stories
Among those stuck are individuals like Suraj Kumar, who arrived in India for a pilgrimage but found the gates shut despite a valid visa. Families face heart-wrenching separations, with cases like Farheen, forced to leave her 18-month-old son behind. Elderly siblings Saeeda and Sagir, who lived in India for over 40 years, were denied citizenship and now face an uncertain future in Pakistan with no family ties. The closure has also stranded 16 Pakistani Hindus who visited Haridwar for rituals.

Pakistan’s Silence and India’s Response
Pakistan has offered no official explanation for denying entry to its citizens, despite India’s relaxation of the exit deadline. The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs allowed departures until further notice, but Pakistan’s refusal has left over 70 nationals, including laborers and pilgrims, in limbo. India continues to facilitate the return of its own citizens, with 1,617 Indians crossing from Pakistan since April 24.

Economic and Diplomatic Ramifications
The border closure disrupts trade, with dry fruit imports from Afghanistan via Pakistan expected to rise by 20%. Diplomatically, the standoff deepens mistrust, with Pakistan conducting military drills near Sialkot. The plight of stranded citizens underscores the human cost of geopolitical tensions, demanding urgent resolution to restore movement and dignity.