Pune: 105 Foreign Nationals Deported, 52 Blacklisted in 2024

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Pune, 23rd January 2025: The Pune city police deported 105 foreign nationals last year for overstaying their visas, with 52 of them blacklisted, preventing their re-entry into India. A significant number of those deported were Yemeni nationals who had entered the country on medical visas.

“Due to the ongoing civil war in Yemen, many citizens travel to India, particularly Pune, for medical treatment. However, after their medical visas expire, some choose to stay back instead of returning to their homeland,” said Pune Commissioner of Police Amitesh Kumar. In 2024, 63 Yemeni nationals were deported and blacklisted for violating visa regulations.

The deportation list also included 53 individuals from Uganda, followed by 28 from Afghanistan, 17 from Nigeria, and 20 from Thailand. Other foreign nationals deported were from Iran, Iraq, Sudan, South Sudan, and Bangladesh. “In total, four Bangladeshi nationals were deported last year,” Kumar added.

“Foreign nationals staying illegally in India, particularly from some African countries, often lack essential documents such as passports, visas, or identification cards. Some are found engaging in drug trafficking or other unlawful activities,” explained Kumar. “We coordinate with central government agencies and contact their embassies or consulates to facilitate the deportation process.”

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Branch) Milind Mohite highlighted the challenges posed by individuals overstaying their medical visas. “Due to the war in Yemen, many citizens seek affordable treatment in Pune hospitals. However, after recovery, they are reluctant to return and often move between cities within the state,” he said.

To address such cases, the police issue “Leave India” notices to individuals found overstaying. “In most cases, their embassies or consulates arrange for their tickets once the deportation process is initiated,” Mohite added.

The Pune police are also working on the deportation of over 145 foreign nationals whose cases are still under process. Mohite emphasized the importance of collaboration between local authorities and international consulates in ensuring that overstaying visitors comply with Indian laws.