The BJP in Karnataka wrote to Governor Thawarchand Gehlot urging the immediate deportation of Pakistani nationals residing in the state.

In a letter signed by BJP state president BY Vijayendra and party’s state cell coordinator S Dattatri, the party sought the Raj Bhavan’s intervention to ensure compliance with the Centre’s reported directive asking all Pakistani nationals in India to leave within 48 hours.

The letter accuses the Karnataka government of not taking “tangible action” in implementing this measure.

“This is a matter of national security and public sentiment,” the letter states, calling the April 22 attack a “heinous” act allegedly carried out by terrorist elements supported by Pakistan. The BJP leaders urged the Governor to instruct the state government to release data on the number of Pakistani nationals currently residing in Karnataka and those deported so far.

The letter further adds that swift action by the state would reflect the nation’s collective condemnation of terrorism and reinforce India’s resolve to safeguard its citizens.

The letter comes in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 tourists on April 22. The Centre reportedly initiated a series of steps to tighten internal security, including the expulsion of Pakistani nationals from the country. The BJP has called for the strict monitoring and execution of these measures in Karnataka.