Authorities Prepare for Mass Deportation Amid Expiry of Deadline for Undocumented Afghan Nationals
Pakistan Finalizes Plans to Detain and Deport Afghan Nationals as March 31 Deadline Nears
As the March 31 deadline for voluntary return approaches, Pakistani authorities have completed arrangements to detain and deport Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders, officials confirmed.
A high-level meeting, chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Friday, reviewed the final preparations for repatriation. Despite requests from the Afghan government and human rights organizations, Pakistan has refused to extend the deadline.
Detention Centers and Deportation Plans in Place
Authorities have established holding centers to detain Afghan nationals before deportation, ensuring food and healthcare facilities are available, Dawn reported. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry will visit provinces to address any issues during the repatriation process.
Naqvi assured that the federal government is coordinating with provinces and directed officials to ensure respectful treatment of deportees. A door-to-door awareness campaign is underway, and the mapping of ACC holders has been completed.
Crackdown on Illegal Afghan Nationals
After March 31, Pakistani authorities will launch a nationwide crackdown on ACC holders and other illegal Afghan migrants:
✔ Property owners renting to undocumented Afghans will face legal consequences.
✔ Search operations will be conducted to track undocumented Afghans, and their biometric records will be maintained to prevent future re-entry.
✔ Fraudulently obtained Pakistani identity and travel documents will be canceled, and violators, including their abettors, will face imprisonment and fines.
Talks with Afghan Taliban on Security Concerns
The meeting also decided to form a committee to review a proposal by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur for holding talks with the Afghan Taliban on terrorism-related issues.
International Criticism Over Deportation Plan
The deportation plan, part of the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Programme launched in November 2023, has drawn sharp criticism from global human rights groups. Amnesty International condemned the March 31 deadline, calling it “unyielding and cruel.”
Despite international pressure, Pakistan remains firm on its decision, and deportations are set to begin immediately after the deadline expires.
