RASC News Agency: As the Pakistani government’s deadline for the expulsion of undocumented migrants draws near, Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti has recently announced a phased-out approach to address this issue. Bugti stated on October 29th that the first phase would involve expelling undocumented migrants without legitimate legal documentation. Subsequent phases will target migrants registered with the United Nations and individuals holding the Pakistan Alien Registration Card (PAR).
This announcement comes as a response to earlier reports from multiple media outlets, citing the Pakistani Ministry of Interior, which claimed that migrants with PAR cards would not be expelled. However, Bugti clarified that the implementation of the “illegal” migrant identification plan has been completed. Effective November 1st, the police will initiate operations nationwide to identify and detain migrants, emphasizing the necessity for all foreign nationals without legal status to return to their respective countries.
According to the provided statistics from Bugti, the number of migrants, including PAR cardholders and registered refugees under the United Nations, exceeds three million.
It is important to note that the plan to deport illegal refugees, particularly Afghanistani refugees, has prompted widespread reactions from international migration organizations and legal entities. These entities have repeatedly urged Pakistan to reconsider its position. However, amidst these concerns, the Pakistani government remains resolute in its determination to implement the plan. It cites Afghanistani involvement in terrorist attacks against its army as a crucial factor for enforcing this strategy.
