Pakistan Asks All Afghan Nationals to Leave by March 31, Deportations to Begin April 1- wna24
Pakistan Asks All Afghan Nationals to Leave by March 31, Deportations to Begin April 1 | Image:
AP
Islamabad: Shehbaz Sharif’s government in Pakistan has ordered the people of Afghan nationality living in Pakistan to leave the Country by March 31, local news reported.
According to ARY News, Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior has asked Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders to leave the country themselves otherwise, they will be deported from April 1.
Afghan Nationals Will be Deported from April 1
The interior ministry in an official handout said, “Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Program (IFRP) is being implemented since November 1, 2023. In continuation of the government’s decision to repatriate all illegal foreigners, national leadership has now decided to also repatriate ACC holders,”
The Afghan nationals will be deported from April 1st, the ministry said in a statement.
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“All illegal foreigners and ACC holders are advised to leave the country voluntarily before March 31, 2025; thereafter, deportation will commence from April 1, 2025,” the statement added.
Earlier, reports of Pakistan planning to evict Afghans had emerged but this is the first the Interior Ministry has officially confirmed the development, ARY News reported.
Ministry Assures Safe Repatriation for Afghan Nationals
The ministry emphasized adequate time was given for Afghans to leave, ensuring no mistreatment and providing food and healthcare during repatriation.
“Pakistan has been a gracious host and continues to fulfill its commitments and obligations as a responsible state. It is reiterated that Individuals staying in Pakistan will have to fulfill all legal formalities and abide by Pakistan’s constitution,” it said.
Earlier, a coalition of human rights organizations and refugee advocacy groups has urged the Pakistani government to halt the forced expulsion of Afghan migrants, citing violations of international law, basic human rights, and the country’s obligations, as reported by Khaama Press.
In recent years, Pakistan has increasingly seen the prolonged stay of Afghan refugees as a strain on resources and a security threat, particularly after the rise of groups like the Taliban.
The government recently initiated expulsions, citing illegal residency and security concerns, sparking debates over human rights, regional stability, and Pakistan’s responsibility to its Afghan neighbors.