Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai is calling on the government to reconsiderits policy regarding the eviction of illegal immigrants, specificallytargeting over 1.7 million Afghan refugees currently residing in Pakistan.In a post shared on X on a Friday, she echoes the plea of UN experts,urging the Pakistani government to reassess its hastily implemented planfor mass deportations, which is set to take effect by November 1.
To enforce this policy, the government has established “holding centers” todetain any remaining illegal refugees after the impending deadline.However, this decision has sparked widespread concern, with many expertsand individuals who rely on border crossings for their livelihood urgingthe government to reevaluate its stance.
It’s important to note that many people from the neighboring region come toPakistan, often seeking medical treatment.
Malala emphasizes that Afghan refugees, including children, women, men, andthe elderly who are fleeing Taliban persecution, deserve support, dignity,and safety, rather than encountering additional obstacles and harassment.
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In a separate development, on Thursday, a significant protest took place atthe Chaman border in Balochistan, opposing the government’s move torestrict border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Thisrestriction mandates that individuals must possess a passport or visa toenter Pakistan.
As of Friday, caretaker Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzaireported that at least 16,000 illegal immigrants have voluntarily returnedto their home countries in response to the government’s policy.