The forced deportation of Afghan migrants from Pakistan through the Torkham crossing has surged before Ramzan, as reported by local media. Afghan migrants highlighted mistreatment, police raids, and harsh living conditions in Pakistan, making their lives challenging. Hamesh Gul, a deported Afghan migrant, lamented leaving behind a lifetime of assets in Pakistan, including schools for their children and demolished shops.
Sediqullah, another deported migrant, criticized Pakistan for disregarding the holy month of Ramadan and failing to adhere to international refugee principles. Nisar Ahmad, born in Pakistan, expressed the difficulties faced by Afghan migrants, including disruptions to education and work opportunities. Local officials in Nangarhar noted the daily return of around 800 migrant families, with support being extended to Afghan returnees.
In January, Afghan refugees in Pakistan urged both governments to address challenges through dialogue and allow a gradual and dignified return to Afghanistan. Haji Nazar, a refugee, appealed for a three-month deadline to facilitate a systematic repatriation process, citing the hardships faced by Afghan residents. Refugee rights activists stressed the importance of a voluntary and supported return process to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.
