The mass expulsion of Afghan refugees from Pakistan has attracted significant attention, with human rights groups and prominent figures expressing their worries about the treatment of displaced individuals. Sanam Saeed, a renowned actor, has added her voice to the growing chorus advocating for compassion and mercy towards these refugees. On November 1, 2023, the deadline for all “illegal aliens” to leave Pakistan, she took to Twitter to share her thoughts, urging the government to reconsider its stance.
Sanam Saeed’s Plea for Compassion
In her tweet, Sanam Saeed pointed out that forcibly removing those seeking shelter will not address Pakistan’s fundamental issues. She emphasized that this action might appear as an attempt to shift blame from the challenges the government and the country are facing. Furthermore, she stressed the importance of displaying more mercy during these trying times in the world. Her tweet underscores a critical aspect of the debate surrounding the Afghan refugee crisis in Pakistan.
“Deporting refugees who seek shelter here will not make our fundamental issues go away. It looks like we are deflecting blame from challenges that the government or the country overall is facing. At a time like this in the world right now, we need to show more mercy,” she tweeted with a hashtag addressing the government of Pakistan.
The Pakistani Government’s Deportation Order
As reported by The New York Times, the Pakistani government issued a deportation order primarily targeting Afghan migrants, resulting in the expulsion of over 70,000 undocumented Afghans in the weeks leading up to November 1. The deportation order has placed immense pressure on the estimated 1.7 million Afghans living illegally in Pakistan. Landlords have evicted Afghan tenants to avoid fines, and employers have terminated undocumented Afghan workers. The police have conducted raids in Afghan-populated neighborhoods, arresting those without proper documentation.
Human Rights Concerns
Human rights groups have condemned Pakistan’s actions, expressing concern that some Afghans could face persecution in Afghanistan due to their past ties to Taliban opponents. Despite the criticism, Pakistani officials have remained steadfast in their policy, establishing deportation centers nationwide to detain and repatriate Afghan refugees.
The Crisis Reaches a Critical Juncture
The situation has reached a critical juncture as thousands of Afghans are returning to Afghanistan daily, overwhelming authorities and aid groups at border crossings. Sanam Saeed’s plea for mercy resonates with those who believe that the situation calls for a more understanding and humane response. The Afghan refugee crisis in Pakistan continues to be a matter of concern, with ongoing discussions and debates about the treatment of displaced individuals and the policies surrounding their deportation.
