In the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel on 14 February, Pakistani nationals living in Rajasthan’s Bikaner have been asked to leave the district within 48 hours.
The District Magistrate’s orders, issued on Monday, 18 February, also prohibit hotels and lodges of the district from allowing Pakistani citizens to stay, ANI reported.
The orders, issued under section 144 of CrPC, have been brought under immediate effect. The DM has also instructed Indian citizens not to employ any Pakistani nationals or have any business relationship with the neighbouring country.
“Given the growing public outrage against Pakistan in the wake of the recent Pulwama attack, and as Bikaner shares a border with Pakistan, all Pakistani citizens within the limits of Bikaner must leave within 48 hours,” the order said.
The order also said that not doing so could disrupt the internal peace and security of the region, and pose a threat to the lives of Pakistanis living in the area.
The order will be in force for the next two months but would not apply to Pakistani citizens who have already registered with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO).
The district administration also said that those found violating the order will be prosecuted under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (disobedience of an order lawfully promulgated by a public servant), which is punishable by up to six months in prison.
Here is a copy of the DM’s order:
(With inputs from ANI)
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