To Help Afghans Fleeing Taliban, India Offers E-Emergency X-Misc Visa To Fast-Track The Process
As the situation continues to remain chaotic in Afghanistan, millions of citizens are still trying to get out of the country, due to the fear of the Taliban.
The insurgents who took over the country on Sunday have said that they will not prevent anyone, both foreigners and Afghan nationals wanting to leave.
But with, the Afghan airspace being shut and limited flight operations, it is becoming increasingly difficult for the people to leave.
As many Indians are stuck in Afghanistan, India's decision to ease out and cut short visa application process seems to be very helpful in providing quick help to the needy.
India reviews visa provisions
India has reviewed visa provisions and introduced a new category of electronic visa called "e-Emergency X-Misc Visa" with an aim to fast-track visa applications for entry into India.
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the nodal ministry to handle visa-related issues, took the decision and made the announcement on Tuesday, two days after the Taliban's stunning and rapid takeover of Afghanistan.
"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," MHA Spokesperson said in a statement.
Under this category of visa, the applications of Afghans will be processed quickly so that they can come to India as soon as possible.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has said that India is closely monitoring the situation in Afghanistan after Kabul fell to the Taliban on Sunday.
"Monitoring the situation in Kabul continuously. Understand the anxiety of those seeking to return to India. Airport operations are the main challenge. Discussions with partners in that regard," Jaishankar said in a tweet on Tuesday.
He also informed that an Afghanistan cell has been created in the External Affairs Ministry for the constant monitoring of the situation.
"We are in constant touch with the Hindu and Sikh community leaders in Kabul. Their welfare will get our priority attention," the Minister tweeted further.
