ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Home Affairs has slated the commencement of the second phase of repatriation operations targeting illegal Afghan immigrants after Eidul Fitr, Aaj News reported on Monday citing government sources.
Directives have been dispatched to the governments of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan by the ministry regarding this decision.
This determination transpired during a video conference chaired by the federal home secretary, attended by provincial secretaries from all four regions alongside senior officials.
The federal government intends to furnish the police and law enforcement agencies across provinces with lists of Afghan citizen cardholders, as disclosed by sources within the home ministry.
The upcoming third phase of repatriation efforts will focus on the deportation of individuals holding Proof of Registration Cards, it was further revealed during the meeting.
According to reports, approximately 500,000 illegal foreign nationals have been deported thus far as part of the ongoing crackdown.
Following the November 1, 2023 deadline for voluntary departure, Pakistan initiated a nationwide campaign against illegal immigrants, establishing border centers to facilitate the return of undocumented Afghan nationals.
Despite calls from various quarters, including the United Nations, rights organizations, and Western diplomatic missions, to reconsider the expulsion of over a million Afghans residing in Pakistan, the authorities have remained steadfast, citing concerns over their alleged involvement in militant activities and crimes detrimental to the nation’s security.
In response, Afghanistan refutes these allegations, contending that Pakistani security issues are internal matters and urging Pakistan to reassess its stance.
