Government Extends Validity of Afghan Refugees’ PoR Cards Until June 30. The government has prolonged the validity of Afghan refugees’ Proof of Registration Cards (PoRs) from April 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024. This extension aims to assist those who have not yet departed Pakistan voluntarily amid efforts to remove illegal foreigners.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the federal cabinet meeting where this decision was made. The extension allows PoR cardholders access to essential services like education and banking during their stay in Pakistan. However, it’s crucial to note that these individuals will be repatriated forcibly in the third phase of the program targeting long-term illegal foreign residents.
Pakistan Expels Over 500,000 Undocumented Refugees in Repatriation Drive.
In the first phase of the repatriation program from November 1 until now, Pakistan has expelled over half a million undocumented refugees. The second phase targets refugees possessing Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC), issued by Pakistan’s National Database and Regulation Authority (NADRA) in 2017.
Following advice from the Ministry of Law and Justice, the federal cabinet approved the establishment of an additional special court in Makran Division, Balochistan, to handle anti-narcotics cases. This court’s jurisdiction will cover districts including Panjgur, Kech, Gwadar, Hub, and Lasbela. The cabinet emphasized appointing the most qualified judge and ensuring effective prosecution.
During the meeting, the Federal Secretary for the Interior provided updates on the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) operations.
The Secretary of Aviation briefed the meeting on recent improvements at Pakistan’s airports, particularly Lahore and Karachi. Measures included increasing service counters and upgrading facilities.
Advertisements seeking expressions of interest were published on April 2, with the deadline set for May 3, to attract companies interested in Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
The meeting also approved the appointments of four ex-officio members to the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants (ICMA) and ratified decisions made by the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases on April 18, 2024.
