Illegal Immigrants
The interior ministry informed the Senate that over 500,000 illegal immigrants have been repatriated as part of the government’s deportation drive. The initiative, targeting undocumented immigrants, particularly Afghans, followed an ultimatum issued in October for all such individuals to leave Pakistan by October 31 or face imprisonment and deportation. Despite facing criticism from Afghanistan and human rights groups, the government proceeded with the nationwide campaign.
In response to Senator Mohsin Aziz’s query about the number of illegal residents and deportations, the interior ministry disclosed that approximately 1.7 million illegal aliens were living in the country, with a significant majority being Afghans lacking legal documentation.
As of the latest update, 541,210 individuals have been repatriated following the cabinet’s approval of the deportation plan, while approximately 1.15 million still reside in the country without proper documentation.
The ministry emphasized ongoing efforts to identify and deport remaining undocumented individuals. The repatriation figures include 271,985 people through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 159,161 through Balochistan, and an additional 110,064 based on data from the Integrated Border Management System.
However, concerns have been raised by advocacy groups and Afghan applicants, alleging that the deportation drive has forcibly repatriated Afghans awaiting resettlement in the United States. Additionally, authorities are accused of disregarding US embassy letters of protection.
The interior ministry’s report underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the issue of illegal immigration while acknowledging the need for continuous efforts to manage and repatriate individuals without proper documentation.
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