Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has criticised the federal government’s policy on Afghan refugees, stating that they should not be forcibly expelled from Pakistan. “The Centre’s policy on Afghan refugees is flawed… The approach taken in the past violated human rights,” he said during a press conference in Peshawar on Sunday.
His remarks come weeks after the federal government set a March 31 deadline for “illegal foreigners” and Afghan Citizen Card holders to leave Pakistan voluntarily. The move is part of an ongoing repatriation drive launched in 2023, primarily targeting undocumented Afghan nationals.
Islamabad has blamed Afghan migrants for security concerns, citing their alleged involvement in militant activities and crime. However, Gandapur argued that those with no criminal record should be allowed to stay and granted Pakistani citizenship.
“There should be no issues if Afghans with no criminal record are willing to stay in Pakistan… I have always raised my voice for Afghans who are legally compliant,” he said.
K-P hosts the largest Afghan refugee population in Pakistan, with Peshawar accommodating the highest number. Many refugees have been living in the province for decades, running businesses or working in various sectors.
According to the United Nations, more than 800,000 Afghans have returned to Afghanistan since Pakistan began its repatriation efforts. Overall, the country is home to 2.8 million Afghan refugees, including 2.1 million documented residents.
Addressing the rise in terrorism, Gandapur questioned the federal government’s handling of security, claiming the situation was better under former prime minister Imran Khan. “When the state focused on crushing one party, it neglected its own responsibilities, leading to a surge in terrorism,” he said.
The K-P chief minister highlighted the province’s financial constraints, blaming the Centre for not providing adequate resources. “The police have not been given new weapons in the last 10 years,” he said, despite their efforts to counter terrorist threats on the province’s borders.
Gandapur also criticised delays in approving terms of reference (ToRs) for negotiations with Afghanistan on cross-border terrorism. He reiterated his demand for K-P’s rightful share under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, warning of protests if funds were not allocated.
“If they are out of funds, they should sit with us and find a solution,” he urged, adding that increased police salaries and development projects hinge on the province receiving its due share.
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