ISLAMABAD: In line with the government’s efforts to expel foreigners residing illegally in Pakistan by October 31, 2023, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) carried out a significant operation on Wednesday, bulldozing hundreds of Afghan homes situated behind the National University of Science and Technology (NUST).
The operation, backed by heavy machinery and a significant presence of Islamabad Police and Rangers, marked a determined move to enforce the eviction deadline.
CDA officials stated that they had issued eviction notices to residents of the Afghan settlement four days prior, warning them to vacate their homes promptly to avoid further action.
According to official sources, the operation, as per their statement, was initiated due to non-compliance.
It is worth noting that on the same day, the Ministry of States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) released a statement assuring Afghan nationals staying legally in Pakistan that they would not face harassment or arrest.
The ministry’s notification clarified that Afghans in possession of Proof of Registration and Afghan Citizen Cards issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) were authorized to stay in Pakistan temporarily.
Moreover, it stressed that registered Afghans could voluntarily return to their homeland, as any form of harassment or arrest would tarnish Pakistan’s image on the international stage.
In addition, the notification also asserted the respect and goodwill that Pakistan has earned from the international community for hosting millions of Afghan refugees over the past 43 years, underscoring the need to spare even those Afghans legally residing in the country.
A few weeks ago, the government issued a deadline for all foreigners staying in the country illegally to depart by October 31, with a warning of consequences for non-compliance.
Source: Islamabad Post
