Islamabad, News desk The Pakistani government has initiated a sweeping plan to repatriate hundreds of thousands of Afghan citizens, escalating tensions and sparking concerns among the affected population. The first phase of the operation targets those holding “Afghan Citizen Cards,” with an estimated 800,000 individuals facing imminent return.
March 31 Deadline for Islamabad, Rawalpindi Evictions
The Ministry of Interior has set a firm deadline of March 31st for the eviction of legally residing Afghan citizens from the capital, Islamabad, and the neighboring city of Rawalpindi. This directive, stemming from a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister, signals a decisive shift in Pakistan’s policy towards its Afghan population.
Phased Repatriation Plan Unveiled
According to government reports, holders of Afghan Citizen Cards will be relocated to other Pakistani cities by the March 31st deadline, with subsequent transfer to Afghanistan planned. Afghan nationals seeking resettlement in third countries have been granted a temporary extension until June 30th.
Visa Policy Overhaul Creates Uncertainty
The government has also implemented significant changes to its visa policies, further tightening restrictions on Afghan residents. Afghan citizens awaiting visas for third countries are now barred from residing in Islamabad. Those who fail to secure visas by September will be deemed illegal residents.
The Ministry of Interior has drastically reduced the duration of medical and tourist visas from three months to a single month, causing widespread disruption and hardship. This abrupt policy change has left many Afghan residents in a state of limbo, struggling to navigate the new regulations.
Visa Issuance Discrepancies Fuel Frustration
Reports from the Ministry of Interior indicate a stark discrepancy between visa issuance and enforcement. While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to issue long-term visas through its embassies, law enforcement agencies are pushing for even shorter extension periods, effectively creating a legal minefield for Afghan residents. This conflict is seen by some as an attempt to force the departure of Afghan individuals through bureaucratic hurdles.
Intelligence Reports to Monitor Repatriation Process
To ensure the effective implementation of the repatriation plan, intelligence agencies will submit progress reports to the Prime Minister’s Office every 15 days. This move underscores the government’s commitment to expediting the repatriation process and maintaining strict oversight.
