The federal government has asked departments to ensure that no Afghan citizens with valid documents are harassed and reminded them that such refugees are allowed to reside in Pakistan.

In letter addressed to the interior secretary, provincial chief secretaries and police chiefs, the Ministry of States and Frontier Regions has said that instructions in the matter have been issued ‘time and time again’.

The letter says that Afghan refugees with Proof of Registration and Afghan Citizen Card are allowed to reside ‘temporarily’ and can only go back to Afghanistan on voluntary basis.

“Moreover, harassing, arresting/detaining, registered Afghan refugees would adversely affect Pakistan’s image and goodwill earned over the last forty-three years,” the letter reads.

All departments have been told to refrain from ‘undue adverse action’ against refugees holding PoR and ACC until the federal cabinet reaches a final decision.

THe government has set November 1 as a deadline for illegal Afghan refugees to sell their assets and leave the country. Failing to do so will lead to expulsion.

The decision was taken in a meeting of the Apex Committee which was chaired caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar. The army chief was also in attendance.