Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa CM Criticizes Pakistan's Policy on Afghan Refugees

Peshawar, March 17 (NationPress) The governing party of Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province has criticized the Central government’s policy to forcibly return Afghan refugees as “inhumane.”

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur of KP remarked that his administration will determine whether to adhere to the Central directives for expelling Afghans residing in the province after March 31, as reported by local media.

He condemned the Central government’s stance on Afghan refugees as “inhumane and oppressive,” according to the prominent Pakistani daily, Dawn.

“I am against the repatriation of Afghans as per the federal government’s policy. I will choose what is best for the culture and traditions of KP,” Gandapur stated.

Gandapur further expressed that it is “wrong and inhuman” to forcibly send back Afghans without any arrangements for their return to their home country. He referred to this forced repatriation as a “violation of basic human rights.”

Expounding on the issue, he mentioned that the federal government had not reached out to him regarding this matter, and instead, he faced criticism when he proposed negotiations with Afghanistan, despite prior agreements with the federal government on discussions with Afghanistan.

Islamabad has repeatedly accused Afghan migrants of posing security risks, alleging their involvement in militant activities and crime.

The KP Chief Minister contended that individuals without a criminal record should be permitted to remain and be granted Pakistani citizenship, as reported by The Express Tribune.

Addressing the increase in terrorism, Gandapur challenged the federal government’s approach to security.

“Today, I openly state that the resurgence in militancy is attributed to the failures of the authorities in charge and the incompetence of the federal government and institutions,” he stated.

KP currently hosts the largest population of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, with Peshawar having the highest concentration. According to the United Nations, over 800,000 Afghans have returned to Afghanistan since Pakistan initiated its repatriation policy.

Many refugees have been residing in the province for decades, engaging in businesses or working across various sectors. Afghan refugees in KP have appealed to Pakistani authorities not to force them to leave the country by March 31.

They assert that their third generation has been settled in Pakistan, and the Taliban regime in Kabul has openly refused to recognize them as Afghan nationals, according to local media reports.

Multiple reports have highlighted that Afghan refugees are enduring persistent harassment and abuse in Pakistan. They have called on the Afghan government and human rights organizations to advocate for their rights.

The refugees have stated that despite holding valid legal documentation, they live under the constant threat of illegal detention, deportation, and discrimination.