Saturday, March 29, 2025
Minhal Ahmad, the Pakistani wife of a CRPF soldier, was on her way to Pakistan when the Jammu and Kashmir High Court ordered her return. She had married Munir Khan online earlier this year.
Government Order and Immediate Impact
After the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Indian government issued strict directives against Pakistani nationals. One of these included a nationwide order for them to leave the country. In response, authorities instructed Minhal Ahmad to reach the Attari-Wagah border and exit India.
Court Intervenes at the Last Moment
Just as Minhal was preparing to cross the border, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court stepped in. The court issued an interim order and stopped her from being deported. Officials brought her back to Jammu immediately.
Visa Status and Legal Argument
Minhal had entered India on a tourist visa after marrying Munir Khan in January 2025. That visa expired on 22nd March. Following the government’s decision to cancel Pakistani visas, she received a notice to leave.
However, BJP spokesperson and lawyer Ankur Sharma challenged the notice. He argued that Minhal, as the wife of an Indian citizen, qualifies for a long-term visa. He also cited a clarification from the Ministry of Home Affairs. According to it, the cancellation does not apply to diplomatic or long-term visa holders.
Court’s Interim Decision and What Lies Ahead
The High Court allowed Minhal to stay in Jammu for now. This interim relief will remain in place until the court rules on her visa status. The next hearing is scheduled for 14th May.
Lawyer Ankur Sharma also noted that the Indian government officially recognizes the couple’s online marriage. He emphasized that the Centre must now decide whether to grant Minhal a long-term visa.
