Afghan Refugees in Pakistan Face Dire Consequences of Deportation Drive

The UN refugee agency has expressed concern over the distress caused by Pakistan's deportation drive targeting Afghan refugees. Pakistan announced plans to expel over a million undocumented refugees, mostly Afghans, leading to the departure of over 370,000 Afghans since October 1. The UNHCR stated that even documented refugees were being targeted, creating a sense of panic. Pakistan claims that harassment of documented refugees is rare and that it is taking action against perpetrators. However, the search operation to verify refugee status continues. Many Afghans fear deportation and have gone underground, citing concerns for their safety in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. The International Organization for Migration highlighted the need for aid and shelter for returnees facing an uncertain future in Afghanistan.