Pakistan has launched a crackdown on illegal foreigners living in the country, primarily targeting Afghans. The government plans to expel 3 million Afghans, with an initial deadline of March 31 for them to voluntarily leave Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Those with Proof of Registration cards can stay until June 30, while others must leave by April 10. The campaign has resulted in the departure of 845,000 Afghans over the past 18 months, but 3 million still remain in Pakistan. Authorities have stated they will work with foreign diplomatic missions to resettle Afghans, otherwise they will be deported.
Amidst criticism from rights groups, the Taliban government, and the United Nations, a spokesman for Afghanistan’s Refugee Ministry expressed concerns that Pakistan’s unilateral expulsions could create hatred towards the country. Transit stations will be set up in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to assist with deportations.
The situation is complicated for families with mixed documentation, children born in Pakistan to Afghan parents, and individuals like Omaid Khan, who faces deportation while his wife, holding Proof of Registration, can stay until June 30. Many, like Nazir Ahmed, born in Quetta with no ties to Afghanistan, are unsure of their future if forced to leave. They are appealing to the Pakistani government for more time to arrange employment in a country they are not familiar with. The fate of these individuals caught in the crackdown remains uncertain.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
