Reacting to a deadline set by the government for deportation of the unregistered Afghan citizens, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazal (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has urged the rulers to initiate bilateral negotiations with the Afghan government to ensure a mutually agreeable procedure.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, Maulana Fazlur Rehman underlined the complexities of the issue and stressed the authorities to adopt a diplomatic approach to address the intricate issue of refugee return effectively.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, he added that Afghan refugees represent a multifaceted challenge, and any repatriation process should involve consultations with the Afghan government. Maulana Fazlur Rehman also pointed out an alarming trend where Afghans living legally in Pakistan are facing exploitation and harassment.
He stated that some local authorities and influential individuals are resorting to blackmail and unjust confiscation of property.
These actions not only undermine the rights of Afghan refugees but also have the potential to strain relations with neighboring Afghanistan.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman called for a serious and committed resolution of the matter through bilateral negotiations.
This approach, he believed, would help protect the rights of Afghan refugees while maintaining the harmony and diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan.