Mar 08, Kathmandu- The Pakistani government has asked Afghan citizens residing in Pakistan to leave the country by March 31.

According to ARY News, Pakistan's Interior Ministry has asked Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders to leave the country, otherwise they will be deported from April 1, the ministry said in a statement.

Earlier, there were reports that Pakistan was planning to deport Afghans, but this is the first time that the interior ministry has officially confirmed it. “The Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Programme (IFRF) has been implemented from November 1, 2023.

“All illegal foreigners and ACC holders are advised to voluntarily leave the country before March 31, 2025. Thereafter, deportation will commence from April 1, 2025,” the statement said.

The ministry said that Afghan nationals have been given sufficient time to leave the country. “Emphasis has been placed on ensuring that no one is mistreated during repatriation. Arrangements have also been made for them to be provided with food and healthcare.”

“Pakistan is fulfilling its commitments and obligations as a responsible country. Those residing in Pakistan must complete all legal formalities and abide by the constitution of Pakistan.”

Earlier, a coalition of human rights organizations and refugee advocacy groups had urged the Pakistani government to stop the forced expulsion of Afghan migrants.

In an open letter, the groups stressed that many Afghan refugees, including human rights defenders, have fled their homeland due to violence, persecution and harassment.

According to the report, the letter also noted that women, children and Afghan migrants with valid visas face forced expulsions, detention and high visa fees.

In recent years, especially after the rise of groups such as the Taliban, the Pakistani government has begun to view the long-term stay of Afghan refugees as a security threat.

Recently, Pakistan has begun to expel them, citing illegal residence and security risks. These expulsions have sparked debates over human rights, regional stability, and Pakistan's responsibility towards its Afghan neighbors.