Receive visas only three hours before departure
TEAM HERALD
PANJIM: While politicians on both sides of the border continue to deliberately escalate tensions between India and Pakistan, civilians desiring visas in both countries continue to bear the brunt of the poor diplomatic relations.
Four Pakistani writers, part of the delegation of seven writers, poets and actors participating in the fourth Goa Arts and Literary Festival (GALF), had a harrowing experience getting to India owing to visa issues.
Earlier scheduled to arrive on December 2, the four Pakistani writers received their visas only on December 4, and only three hours before departure. This led to the delegation missing their presentation, which was part of the inauguration ceremony held at Kala Academy on December 5.
As per the rules, the delegation started the application process for a conference visa six weeks before their travel.
“The Indian High Commission website stated that the delegation also had to submit a sponsorship certificate,” says writer Omer Wahaj, adding that if you have relatives here, it is much easier to get a visa, but for tourism purpose it is difficult.
A sponsorship certificate has to be filled by the Indian referee of a Pakistani national. In addition, this certificate has to also be attested, along with a copy of the photo identity card of the concerned officer issuing the certificate, duly self attested by the officer concerned.
Though this procedure took a few days, the delegates submitted all the necessary documents, only to be told that the website was not updated and that conference visa applicants do not need to submit a sponsorship certificate.
“Whatever the political or security issues may be, this is an antithesis of what the high commission stands for. We are only writers and poets; the delay in security clearance was a bit unfair. It is very difficult for Indians and Pakistanis to meet,” says Afia Aslam.
After the entire ordeal, the four delegates were issued a reporting visa, which is state specific.
“This is why it took 24 hours to get here from Karachi,” says Wahaj, “There are only three cities where we can get our immigration done –Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai.”
“People from Pakistan usually visit Mumbai, Delhi or Lucknow. It is extremely difficult for us to get a visa to Goa,” says Farheen Zehra, who said the police team at the Goa Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) was very polite and cooperative.
