With the suspension of visa extension services for Afghan refugees in Pakistan, many are reporting an increased risk of forced deportation and harassment by local police.
They say that the invalidation of identification cards (Proof of Registration) has further complicated their ability to stay legally in Pakistan.
Mohammad Reza Sazesh, an Afghan resident in Pakistan, said: “Very difficult conditions have been created for all refugees in Islamabad. On one hand, arrests are happening day and night, and on the other hand, visa extensions have stopped. Currently, no visa or passport renewals are being processed.”
Atiqullah Mansoor, another Afghan in Pakistan, added: “After a senior Pakistani official announced that PoR cards would no longer be extended, fear and panic spread among Afghan refugees. They can’t resolve their decades-long affairs in Pakistan within a short time.”
These developments come amid Pakistan’s ongoing campaign of mass deportations of Afghan refugees.
In previous cases, thousands were expelled without being given enough time to relocate their belongings and personal assets.
Mohammad Khan Talebi Mohammadzai, a refugee rights activist, stated: “Pakistan’s actions could lead to another humanitarian crisis, especially since other countries are beginning to follow suit.”
Concerns about the escalating deportation campaign in Pakistan are rising as Iran continues deporting Afghan migrants as well.
Meanwhile, a decrease in international aid for Afghans deported from neighboring countries has prompted global warnings about worsening economic conditions inside Afghanistan.
SOURCE : TOLONews
