Pakistan has mandated illegal refugees and Afghan citizens to leave by March 31, threatening deportation thereafter. While the government attributes security issues to Afghan nationals, Afghanistan denies these claims. The status of approximately 1.3 million registered Afghans in Pakistan remains uncertain as the country grapples with a significant refugee population.

Pakistan has issued a firm ultimatum to illegal refugees and Afghan citizen cardholders, mandating their departure from the country by March 31. The Pakistani Interior Ministry has warned that deportations will begin for those who fail to comply by this deadline. This decision reflects Pakistan’s intensified stance against illegal immigration, akin to that of the United States.

The government of Pakistan has attributed ongoing terrorist attacks and criminal activities within its territory to Afghan citizens. Nevertheless, the Afghan authorities have denied these allegations. The Pakistani Interior Ministry has affirmed its commitment to being a responsible host nation, stating that all individuals residing within its borders must fulfill necessary legal obligations.

In 2023, Pakistan commenced an operation aimed at evacuating foreign nationals, particularly targeting Afghans. Initially, the government prioritized the evacuation of those without legal documentation. According to United Nations data, over 800,000 Afghans possess Afghan citizen cards, while approximately 1.3 million hold formal registration and residence permits in Pakistan.

The ramifications of these new measures on individuals with residence permits remain unclear, as the Pakistani government’s statements did not address this aspect. Since 2023, the UN has reported that over 800,000 Afghans have returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan, which has historically housed around 28 million Afghan refugees over the past four decades due to prolonged conflicts in Afghanistan.

In summary, Pakistan’s ultimatum requiring illegal refugees and Afghan citizen cardholders to leave by March 31 has raised concerns regarding the treatment of Afghan nationals within its borders. As the government grapples with internal security issues, the implications for legally residing individuals remain ambiguous. This situation reflects broader geopolitical tensions and responsibilities associated with hosting large refugee populations, particularly from Afghanistan.

Original Source: www.india.com

Related posts:

Pakistan’s Order to Relocate Afghan Refugees Escalates Humanitarian Concerns India Advocates for Transparency and Reform in UN Security Council Operations Trump Announces Capture of Afghan Militant Linked to Kabul Airport Bombing Capture of Kabul Airport Bombing Suspect Marks Progress Toward Justice