Pakistani Women Found with Indian Voter IDs in Bhagalpur, Sparking Alarm

According to administrative sources, the women have been identified as Imrana Khanam and Firdaus Khanam. Both were residing at Bhikhanpur Gumti Number 3, Tank Lane, Islamnagar police station area.

A shocking case has emerged during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bhagalpur (Bihar). The names of two Pakistani women residing there were found registered in the voter list, and they had also been issued Indian Voter IDs (EPICs). Following this revelation, the district administration has initiated immediate action, and the process of removing their names from the voter list is underway. This discrepancy came to light during a verification drive conducted by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The ministry's campaign aims to identify foreign nationals staying in the country beyond their visa period. During this drive, the presence of three Pakistani nationals in Bhagalpur was detected, including two women.

How Did These Women Obtain IDs?

According to administrative sources, the women have been identified as Imrana Khanam and Firdaus Khanam. Both were residing at Bhikhanpur Gumti Number 3, Tank Lane, Islamnagar police station area. Officials stated that EPIC numbers had been issued in their names. The District Magistrate of Bhagalpur, Dr. Naval Kishore Chaudhary, confirmed that an immediate investigation was launched after receiving a report from the Special Branch, and their names are being removed from the voter list.

Scrutiny of Visas and Documents

The Ministry of Home Affairs' investigation revealed that Firdaus Khanam entered India on a 3-month visa on 19 January 1956. Imrana, on the other hand, was issued a 3-year visa. During this investigation, another case also came to light involving a Pakistani national, Mohammad Aslam, who illegally entered India and obtained an Aadhaar card. Aslam entered India on 24 May 2002 and was granted a 2-year visa.

Further Action

The state headquarters has sought a detailed report from the DM and SSP. Instructions have also been given to take corrective measures to prevent such irregularities in the future. A comprehensive investigation report will soon be submitted by the district administration to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the state police headquarters. Further action will be taken thereafter.