The Pakistani government has ordered all "illegal foreigners" and Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders to leave the country by March 31, warning that **[deportations will begin on April 1 for those who fail to comply](https://www.indiatoday.in/world/shows/story/the-buzz-pakistans-afghan-refugee-deportation-plan-thousands-face-uncertainty-as-us-resettlement-stalls-glbg-2675949-2025-02-07?utm_source=global-search&utm_medium=global-search&utm_campaign=global-search)**. The directive, issued by the country's interior ministry, is part of Islamabad's "Illegal Foreigners Return Program" (IFRP), which has been in effect since November 1, 2023.
The Shehbaz Sharif-led government has repeatedly attributed militant attacks and criminal activities to Afghan nationals, the largest migrant group in Pakistan. Kabul, however, has firmly refused the accusations.
"Pakistan has been a gracious host and continues to fulfil its commitments and obligations as a responsible state. It is reiterated that individuals staying in Pakistan will have to fulfil all legal formalities," the country's interior ministry said in a statement.
The Pakistani government has assured that the eviction process will be conducted with 'dignity', assuring that "no one will be mistreated". Authorities have also arranged food and medical facilities for those returning to Afghanistan.
According to United Nations data, Pakistan currently hosts over 8 lakh Afghan Citizenship Card (ACC) holders and around 13 lakh registered Afghan refugees with Proof of Residence (PoR) cards. However, the government has not clarified whether PoR cardholders will be subject to the eviction order.
Since the repatriation drive began, over 8,00,000 Afghans have already returned to Afghanistan. Pakistan has hosted approximately 28 lakh Afghan refugees over the past four decades.
Among those facing deportation are thousands of Afghans awaiting resettlement in the United States and other Western nations following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. The mass deportation decision has drawn international attention, with concerns about the fate of vulnerable Afghans, including women and children.
Meanwhile, the Pakistani government has linked the move to security concerns, economic pressures, and political considerations. Officials argue that undocumented foreign nationals contribute to crime and militancy. Islamabad has long accused Afghan migrants of harbouring or supporting militant groups, particularly along the porous border between the two countries.
The situation has worsened since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, leading to increased cross-border tensions and heightened security measures.
Economically, Pakistan faces soaring inflation, mounting debt, and a struggling job market. The presence of Afghan refugees has further strained resources such as housing, healthcare, and employment opportunities. By expelling undocumented foreigners, the government aims to ease some of these economic burdens.
The decision also reflected growing domestic political pressure. Public sentiment against Afghan refugees has intensified, with some political parties and local leaders blaming them for rising crime and unemployment. With elections on the horizon, the ruling administration may be using the deportation policy to appease nationalist factions and consolidate support.
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have deteriorated in recent years, particularly over security issues and the treatment of refugees. Islamabad has accused the Afghan Taliban of failing to curb cross-border militancy, especially attacks linked to Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Kabul, in turn, has criticised Pakistan's deportation campaign, urging better treatment for Afghan nationals. Some analysts view the deportation policy as a diplomatic manoeuvre to pressure the Afghan government into taking stronger action against militant groups operating near the border.