As the final moments approach the stipulated deadline for “Illegal Immigrants,” caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti declared on Tuesday that from November 2, the government will initiate a clampdown on all undocumented immigrants. This includes a substantial number of Afghan nationals.
“Only two days remain for voluntary departure,” stated Bugti in a video message. He reminded that the grace period, which concludes on November 1, offers these individuals the choice of a voluntary exit.
From the next day, Bugti highlighted, “Our extended and phased operation will commence.” He clarified, “We aren’t expelling any refugees. Only those without any legal status will depart from Pakistan.”
With over 4 million Afghan migrants and refugees, Pakistan hosts about 1.7 million without proper documentation. This number includes those born and raised within Pakistan’s borders.
The directive from Islamabad earlier this month indicated its intent for all undocumented immigrants to vacate by November 1. This move stemmed from allegations linking Afghan nationals to illicit activities, contraband trading, and being implicated in 14 out of 24 suicide bombings this year. The administration posits that militants leverage Afghan territories to train combatants and strategize assaults within Pakistan.
Temporary Facilities and Assistance
This deportation agenda signifies a further strain on the already tense ties between the neighbouring countries.
For those choosing to leave of their own volition, Bugti mentioned the government’s role in aiding them. Temporary centres are being established for these immigrants. “We aim to offer them sustenance and medical services for two to three days at these holding locations,” Bugti assured.
Predominantly Afghan, these immigrants, many of whom have resided in Pakistan for an extensive period, will undergo processing at these centres. Since the 1979 Soviet incursion into Kabul, Pakistan claims it has seen the most significant surge in Afghan refugees.
