PESHAWAR – In recent weeks, dozens of Afghan nationals who were forced to leave Pakistan have expressed strong demand for a swift return, citing unstable conditions in their hometowns. Many of those expelled say they were given little time to gather personal belongings and move out, and now face urgent challenges across the border.
Families tell a familiar story: sudden knock at the door, a few hours to vacate, and then a government convoy escort across the border. They allege their homes and businesses in Pakistan—some located in Peshawar and northern districts—were abruptly sealed or demolished, leaving them with nothing but the clothes they were wearing.
“The situation in Afghanistan is unsafe, and I had made a new life here,” said one man, speaking from Nangarhar province. “Returning back was not a choice; I came to Pakistan because life was better. Now we’re stuck again.”
Aid groups have reported that many of the deported were unable to legally register upon return, complicating their access to basic services. With winter approaching and food prices spiking, humanitarian pressure is growing—making a coordinated return plan more urgent.
Critics argue that the blanket expulsions violate basic rights and undermine regional cooperation. Legal experts are questioning whether due process was followed, pointing to the lack of advance notice and official documentation.
Meanwhile, communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are calling on the federal government to reopen humanitarian channels and consider temporary permits—especially for families with members born in Pakistan, long-term residents, and those with medical needs.
As Islamabad and Kabul have not yet agreed on a refugee management framework, many fear that an increasing wave of deportations could exacerbate chaos and burden both Pakistani and Afghan border regions.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved
