Ganderbal, October 24 (KNZ):In a move aimed at tightening compliance with immigration laws, the Ganderbal Police have registered cases against three hotels in Sonamarg for allegedly failing to report the stay of foreign tourists to the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) within the stipulated time period, as required under law.
The action followed a comprehensive inspection of hotels in the Sonamarg area, conducted under the supervision of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal, Shri Khalil Ahmad Poswal (JKPS). During the checks, it was found that Hotel Mount View, Hotel Emperor Resort, and Hotel Village Walk had not submitted the requisite details of foreign guests, in violation of Section 17 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.
Taking cognisance of the lapse, Police Station Sonamarg registered three separate FIRs (Nos. 25/2025, 26/2025, and 27/2025) under Section 8/23(b) of the Act against the respective hotel owners.
Officials said the inspections were part of ongoing efforts to ensure adherence to statutory obligations by establishments dealing with foreign nationals.
“The police will continue to conduct regular checks to ensure full compliance with the legal provisions. Any violation will invite strict action,” an official said.
Ganderbal Police have urged all hotel and guesthouse owners in the district, particularly those hosting foreign visitors, to strictly follow the reporting procedures to avoid punitive action.KNZ