Govt announces extension for Afghan refugees

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has decided to extend the expiration date of Afghan refugee Proof of Registration (POR) cards until June 30.

The decision was made as part of a continued attempt to expel undocumented immigrants from the nation.

“Pakistani authorities issue POR cards to Afghan refugees, providing them with official identification that gives them legal status and allows them to access crucial services such as education, healthcare, and banking.”

Extending POR cards is a regular procedure that depends on the political and security relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. This process usually includes the Pakistani government assessing the situation in collaboration with global organizations like the UNHCR.

The federal cabinet has approved an extension based on a suggestion from the Ministry of State and Frontier Regions (SAFRON. This extension will allow POR cardholders to continue receiving benefits in Pakistan until June 30, 2024.

Read More: Seven-terrorist infiltrating Pak-Afghan border gunned down: ISPR

This choice is in line with Pakistan’s larger effort to send back undocumented immigrants, especially those from Afghanistan, due to security worries related to an increase in militant actions.

Afghan refugees who are officially registered have shown worries about what lies ahead, but Pakistani authorities argue that the deportation campaign is essential because of security risks created by some Afghan individuals, a few of whom have carried out deadly assaults.

Afghan officials in Kabul have disputed the deportation efforts, stating that Afghan citizens should not be held accountable for Pakistan’s security issues. They believe that Pakistan should have initiated discussions and provided more time for the repatriation process.