ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly was informed on Wednesday that around 3,500 Pakistanis were deported from the United Arab Emirates for violating local social media regulations during the Iran-US conflict.
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazl Chaudhry shared the details while responding to questions during the Question Hour. He clarified that the deportations stemmed from regulatory enforcement applicable to all residents, not targeted specifically at Pakistani nationals.
Properties of the deported individuals are being transferred to their legal heirs. The Foreign Ministry will provide necessary assistance to any affected families facing difficulties in the process.
Opposition members briefly entered the well of the house, raised slogans holding placards, and then returned to their seats during the proceedings.
**Replying to MNA Samina Khalid Ghurki**, the minister addressed the situation of Pakistani prisoners abroad. No death row prisoners from Pakistan are currently held in Spain or Portugal. Under the prisoner transfer agreement with the United Kingdom, nine prisoners were repatriated in 2024 and 2025.
On Pakistanis stranded in Somalia, Dr Tariq Fazl Chaudhry stated that efforts are underway for their safe return, with the Foreign Minister personally monitoring the matter. The Speaker directed special attention to this issue.
**Regarding illegal immigration**, the minister noted challenges faced by undocumented Pakistanis attempting to reach Europe via Libya and Gulf countries. Such attempts have resulted in loss of precious lives. On the directives of the Prime Minister, 100 FIA officials were dismissed for their involvement or negligence in related matters.
**In response to a question about a Pakistani youth from Mardan burned to death in a vehicle in Italy**, Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis Aoun Chaudhry assured the house that the body would be repatriated. The family, being from a low-income background, will receive financial support. All three demands of the heirs have been accepted, and the embassy has been instructed accordingly. Aoun Chaudhry personally met the family.
**Dr Tariq Fazl Chaudhry emphasized** that no specific action is being taken against Pakistanis in the UAE. The UAE authorities are enforcing disciplinary measures uniformly across the expatriate community.
Parliamentary Secretary Mian Khan informed the house that 12 petrol pumps have been sealed, with most cases in Punjab, amid broader enforcement against irregularities. He acknowledged global pressures contributing to higher fuel prices.
**On K-Electric**, Parliamentary Secretary Aamir Talal Deen highlighted post-privatization developments. The utility was required to increase generation capacity by 1,000 MW under the agreement. It has added 200 MW so far. Since privatization, the company has attracted $4.7 billion in investment. It receives 2,000 MW from the national grid.
Further investment of $2 billion is planned between 2024 and 2030. Tariffs are determined by NEPRA. The house also passed amendments to the Inter-Board Coordination Commission Act 2023.
**The National Assembly approved** amendments to the Islamabad Private Educational Institutions Registration and Regulation Act 2013. A proposed amendment by Naeema Kishwar was rejected by majority vote.
Several standing committee reports, mostly related to the Cabinet Secretariat, were presented by MNA Abrar Ahmed. The house granted condonation for delays in report submission.
**The session reflected ongoing parliamentary oversight** on consular matters, energy sector reforms, and regulatory enforcement. The government continues to engage with host countries on expatriate welfare while addressing domestic challenges in migration management and public utilities.
**Broader implications** include the need for greater awareness among overseas Pakistanis about host country laws, particularly social media regulations during regional tensions. The deportations highlight vulnerabilities in large diaspora communities amid geopolitical shifts in the Gulf. Officials indicated continued diplomatic efforts to facilitate smooth property transfers and support for affected families.
Future developments may involve strengthened pre-departure orientation programs and closer coordination between the Foreign Ministry, Overseas Pakistanis Foundation, and FIA to curb illegal migration routes that endanger lives. Market reactions in energy and potential adjustments in power sector tariffs remain areas of close monitoring as investment commitments progress.