The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has confirmed its alignment with the central government’s decision to deport Afghan refugees by March 31, despite previous opposition from the provincial chief minister, Ali Amin Gandapur, according to sources.
In a recent report, Pakistani media outlets clarified that the provincial government will comply with the federal directive regarding the return of Afghan refugees, contrary to earlier statements made by Gandapur. The Express Tribune reported that reliable sources within the provincial government confirmed that the Gandapur administration would not interfere with the policy, which is to be enforced across Pakistan, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“The Gandapur government will not interfere in any way with the policy being implemented by the Centre regarding the return of Afghan refugees,” the source stated.
This move has sparked concern among Afghan refugees in Pakistan, many of whom have expressed fear and anxiety over the looming deportation process.
Abdul Khaleq, an Afghan refugee, urged the international community and humanitarian organizations to intervene and halt the deportation efforts, citing the severe challenges faced by Afghan refugees in Pakistan.
“Afghan refugees in Pakistan face many problems, and this action will only close the window of hope for them,” Khaleq stated.
Meanwhile, some refugees who are awaiting resettlement in the United States have written an open letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urging the government to reconsider the decision and facilitate the visa extension process.
Abdullah, a refugee with legal documents, described the anxiety faced by Afghan refugees:
“Even though we have visas and passports, we still face various crises in Pakistan. Whenever we go out to get bread, we do so with fear and anxiety.”
Samea, another Afghan refugee, expressed concerns about the psychological toll the deportation process is taking on the refugee community.
“This process is worrying for all refugees in Pakistan, and everyone is under psychological stress,” Samea added.
Previously, Ali Amin Gandapur, the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, had voiced opposition to the central government’s decision, particularly regarding Afghan refugees who hold legal documents. Gandapur had called for them to be allowed to stay in Pakistan.
As the deportation deadline approaches, tensions remain high among refugees, while the future of Afghanistan’s displaced citizens in Pakistan hangs in the balance.
Stay updated on the latest developments regarding Afghan refugees and regional policies by visiting www.u.af.
