In response to the pleas of several Pakistani Hindus who have expressed their desire to stay back in India after they came on a pilgrimage carrying one month visas, the government said that they would be granted long-term visas if they apply as per the rules. The pilgrims from the neighboring nation had alleged that the nation had persecuted them.

Union home secretary R K Singh had said that the pilgrims would have to apply for a long term visa, according to the norms and they would be not be denied if they meet the requirements under the rules stipulated. He has also added that not one of the ones who reached the country had applied for a visa yet.

These pilgrims have come under the pretense of a pilgrimage with a visa allowing them a one month visit. Most of these people have also expressed their desire not to go back to the country.
The Pakistani authorities have asked the Pakistani Hindus that they would not defame the nation and also not seek refuge from the Indian Government. According to the permit, they were to return to Pakistan after their visa expires in 30 days.

A leader in one of the group, Anup Kumar, had clearly stated that Hindu families had no safety in Pakistan. He said that young Hindu girls and brides were often kidnapped after threats with a gun. He also said that most of the pilgrims would prefer to stay back if they were given a chance considering the scenario now in Pakistan.

(AW- Anil)