New Delhi: The Centre on Tuesday launched a new category “e-Emergency X-Misc Visa” for Afghan nationals in view of the tension prevailing in Afghanistan.
A spokesperson of the Union Home Ministry tweeted,” MHA reviews visa provisions in view of the current situation in Afghanistan. A new category of electronic visa called “e-Emergency X-Misc Visa” introduced to fast-track visa applications for entry into India.”
Authorities are informed to process the applications in New Delhi as all official centre’s in Afghanistan have been sealed. An elaborate system, involving the home ministry, is in place for vetting all applications, which must be accompanied by certain documents. All Afghans irrespective of religion have been cited as eligible for the e-visas. The visas would be valid for six months from now, added officials.
The government will take all steps to ensure the safety and security of Indian nationals and our interests in Afghanistan,” MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.
This move by the Indian government comes in the backdrop of desperate situations witnessed on Monday at the Kabul Airport as the evacuation of Afghan nationals reported chaos. Social media floated visuals that featured people jostling to board planes and clinging onto the wheels of US military aircraft.