Pakistan Denies Closing Wagah Border, Accuses India of Stranding Its Citizens
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Foreign Office on Friday dismissed Indian media reports claiming that Islamabad had closed the Wagah border crossing, leaving Pakistani citizens stranded on the Indian side. The clarification comes amid heightened tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.
Key Points of Contention
1. Pakistan Rejects Border Closure Allegations
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Indian media had claimed that Pakistan “refused” to open the Wagah border, forcing stranded Pakistanis—including patients and separated families—to return without completing medical treatment.
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The Foreign Office clarified that the Wagah-Attari crossing remained operational until April 30, and Pakistan remains ready to receive its nationals if India allows them to cross.
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“The Wagah border will remain open for Pakistani citizens in the future as well,” the statement affirmed.
2. India’s Visa Revocation & Stranded Pakistanis
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After the Pahalgam attack, India revoked visas for Pakistani nationals and ordered them to leave by April 29.
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Reports emerged of patients, including children, being forced to return mid-treatment, with some families split across borders.
3. Pakistan Steps In to Assist Affected Citizens
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Health Minister Mustafa Kamal announced government-funded treatment for two young heart patients who had to return from India prematurely.
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The girls may be referred to the Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology (AFIC) as authorities coordinate with hospitals.
Broader Context: Rising Tensions Post-Pahalgam Attack
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The April 22 attack in Pahalgam killed 26 tourists, prompting India to blame Pakistan without evidence.
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Pakistan denied involvement and demanded an independent investigation.
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India retaliated with diplomatic measures, including:
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Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty
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Closing the Wagah-Attari border
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Expelling Pakistani diplomats
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Humanitarian Concerns
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The visa revocation has disrupted medical care, family reunions, and travel plans for Pakistani citizens in India.
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Pakistan has accused India of politicizing humanitarian issues, while New Delhi frames its actions as “security measures.”
What’s Next?
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Diplomatic Channels: Pakistan may raise the issue in international forums, accusing India of violating bilateral agreements.
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Medical Relief: Islamabad is arranging alternative treatment for affected patients within Pakistan.
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Border Status: While Pakistan insists the crossing remains open, India’s continued restrictions could prolong the crisis.
The Wagah border dispute underscores how political tensions are spilling into humanitarian crises, with ordinary citizens—especially patients and families—bearing the brunt. As Islamabad and New Delhi trade accusations, the priority should be ensuring safe passage and medical care for those caught in the crossfire.
“Politics should not override humanity,” a Pakistani official stated. Yet, with both nations hardening their stances, a swift resolution seems unlikely. The world watches as South Asia’s fragile peace hangs in the balance.
