Faridkot, 02 September (H.S.): A Pakistani national who had entered Indian territory without a valid passport in June 2024, when he was a minor, was repatriated to Pakistan on Wednesday after completion of the required legal formalities.

The repatriation was facilitated by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Faridkot, following directions from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.

According to officials, the youth had crossed into India through the Ferozepur border and was subsequently taken before the Juvenile Justice Board, Ferozepur. His case was decided in 2025. During the period of custody, he attained the age of 18 and was thereafter housed separately at the Observation Home, Faridkot, which serves as a designated place of safety under the juvenile justice system.

After completion of his sentence and other legal requirements, the repatriation received clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs. Sanjay Agnihotri, District and Sessions Judge-cum-Chairman of DLSA, Faridkot, directed officials to complete the process.

The proceedings were carried out under the supervision of Gurpreet Kaur, Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Secretary, DLSA, Faridkot. Officials from the Faridkot Observation Home escorted the youth to the Attari border, where he was handed over to the Pakistan Rangers.

Before his departure, Gurpreet Kaur gave him sweets, fruits and clothes and wished him a better future. She also advised him to stay away from unlawful activities and never attempt to cross an international border without valid travel documents.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH