By News Desk 
Nearly 65 years ago, an 8-month-old baby girl arrived in India from Pakistan on a long-term visa — and never returned. Today, that baby is a 65-year-old woman named Farhat, who is now the head of a family with four daughters and two sons. She holds an Indian Aadhaar card and a ration card, and has been living as a resident for decades.
Farhat came under police scrutiny during a crackdown on illegal immigrants, including those from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Rohingya community. During document verification drives in local neighborhoods, she was found residing in Sufi Tola, allegedly with fake documents. A formal police complaint (FIR) has now been filed against her.
How Farhat Came to India and Built Her Life
According to the police, Inspector Saurabh was conducting background checks in the area when he received information about Farhat Sultana, originally from Karachi, Pakistan, living in India under false pretenses. Investigations revealed that Farhat had entered India in 1961, along with her mother, on a long-term visa. At that time, she was just a baby. Her mother later returned to Pakistan with Farhat’s older sister, Nusrat, but left Farhat behind with her maternal grandfather in Bareilly.
In 1985, Farhat married Shahid Khalil, a resident of Sufi Tola. The couple had seven children — five daughters and two sons. One of the daughters passed away, and another is now married and living in Ghaziabad. Farhat currently lives with her remaining three daughters and two sons, who support the household through embroidery work and daily wage labor.
Accused of Using Fake Documents for Government Benefits
It has been alleged that Farhat used fake documents to obtain an Aadhaar card about 16 years ago, and a ration card a decade ago. Using these, she has reportedly availed several Indian government welfare schemes. The Baradari police station has officially registered a case based on Inspector Saurabh’s complaint.
Her Visa Set to Expire in July 2025
Farhat’s visa, which allows her to legally stay in India, is reportedly set to expire in July this year. She is expected to apply for a renewal. In the past, she applied for Indian citizenship, but her request was denied.
Police sources say that further action will be taken after a detailed investigation is completed. The authorities are currently verifying all aspects of her residency, documentation, and history.
Family Struggles and Estrangement from Husband
Farhat has reportedly been separated from her husband for the last three years and now lives solely with her children. The family lives in modest conditions — the daughters do zari (embroidery) work from home, while the sons take up labor work to make ends meet.
This case highlights the complex realities of migration, documentation, and identity that often unfold decades after borders are crossed — and the delicate balance between humanitarian concerns and legal accountability.