In recent weeks, there has been a great deal of attention focused on the mass deportation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan. Notable figures and human rights organizations have voiced their worries about the treatment of these displaced people. Actor Sanam Saeed has added her voice to the cacophony calling for pity and compassion for these refugees. She expressed her opinions on Twitter on November 1, 2023, the day that all “illegal aliens” were required to leave Pakistan, and she urged the government to change its mind.
Sanam Saeed noted in a tweet that removing people who are seeking refuge by force will not solve Pakistan’s core problems. She pointed out that this move would appear to be an attempt to place the blame elsewhere for the difficulties the nation and the administration are facing. She also underlined the significance of showing greater kindness in these difficult times for humanity. Her post highlights an important point in the discussion over the Afghan refugee problem 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 govt or the country overall is facing. At a time like this in the world right now, we need to show more mercy. @GovtofPakistan
— Sanam Saeed (@sanammodysaeed) November 1, 2023
In the weeks preceding November 1, around 70,000 illegal Afghans were expelled from Pakistan as a result of a deportation order issued by the Pakistani government, which was primarily directed against Afghan migrants, according to a report by the New York Times. Significant pressure has been placed on the estimated 1.7 million Afghans living in Pakistan illegally as a result of the repatriation order. Employers have fired undocumented Afghan labor, while landlords have evicted Afghan renters in order to avoid fines. Police have arrested people without the right documentation during operations in neighborhoods with a high concentration of Afghan residents.
“Removing refugees who come here for refuge won’t solve our core problems. It appears that we are shifting the blame away from problems that the federal government or the nation as a whole is dealing with. We need to be more merciful in this world right now,” she tweeted, targeting the Pakistani government with a hashtag.
Human rights organizations have denounced Pakistan’s activities and expressed fear that certain Afghans may be persecuted in Afghanistan as a result of their previous affiliations with opponents of the Taliban. Pakistani officials have established deportation centers across the country to hold and return Afghan refugees, despite criticism of their stance.
At this crucial point, thousands of Afghans are returning home every day, overwhelming humanitarian organizations and officials at border crossings. Those who feel that a more compassionate and understanding attitude is warranted by the circumstances find resonance in Saeed’s appeal for mercy.
I am a dedicated student currently in my seventh semester, pursuing a degree in International Relations. Alongside my academic pursuits, I am actively engaged in the professional field as a content writer at the Rangeinn website.