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India’s ban on Pakistani nationals under SAARC visas has sparked renewed debate around Seema Haider, a Pakistani woman living in Greater Noida with her Indian husband.
Seema Haider entered India illegally in 2023 with her four children via Nepal and married an Indian citizen named Sachin Meena and now lives with him in Uttar Pradesh.
As her application for Indian citizenship is still pending, the legal experts believe the recent central government directive ordering all Pakistani citizens to leave India could impact her case.
Delhi High Court advocate Abu Bakar Sabbak stated that the rule could apply to Seema, though her situation may be reviewed by the Uttar Pradesh government.
Her case is legally complex, as she bypassed normal immigration channels and entered without a valid visa.
Supporters point to her marriage and family as grounds for leniency, while critics argue immigration laws should apply to all, regardless of personal circumstances.
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Seema’s public appearances practicing Hindu rituals and her claim of converting to Hinduism have drawn support, but the final decision remains with legal and immigration authorities.
She was previously arrested and later released on bail for illegal entry, while her husband was charged with harboring her.
The issue gained fresh attention after India’s strong diplomatic response to a deadly terror attack in Indian occupied Kashmir (IoK), which killed 26 tourists in Pahalgam.
In retaliation, India suspended key agreements with Pakistan and enforced a 48-hour deadline for Pakistani nationals to leave.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that Pakistanis under the SAARC visa scheme must exit India immediately, with many already crossing the Wagah border.
