Patna: Twelve foreign travellers from Cambodia were detained overnight at Gaya International Airport on Thursday after arriving without valid visas, airport authorities confirmed. They were released on Friday under a temporary relief permit, allowing them to stay in the city for one week before being deported.
The passengers, including five monks and seven female pilgrims, were among 150 individuals on a chartered flight. Upon arrival, immigration officials found that their visas had not been issued in time for travel. They were provided with overnight accommodation inside the airport while authorities reviewed their case.
Airport Director Awadhesh Kumar said the travellers had applied for visas, but the processing delays prevented them from receiving approval before departure. “The chartered flight returned to Cambodia,” Kumar explained. “The travellers were detained for examination and subsequently issued temporary relief permits valid for one week under Indian government regulations.”
The group will be allowed to remain in Gaya for the duration of the week, after which they will be sent back to Cambodia via Thailand. Airport authorities ensured their safety, food, and accommodation during the interim period.
Gaya, in Bihar, is a major international pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. The city draws millions of foreign visitors annually, predominantly Buddhist pilgrims. Security measures at the airport and around Bodh Gaya are routinely heightened to safeguard international tourists.
“Gaya is always ready to welcome guests,” Kumar added, “but we maintain strict security and immigration checks to ensure their safety.”
