Islamabad High Court Rejects Petition to Stop Forced Deportation of Afghan Migrants

The Islamabad High Court has rejected a petition filed by a defense lawyer seeking to halt the forced deportation of Afghan migrants, stating that it does not intervene in government policies.

According to Pakistan’s Express Tribune newspaper, the court dismissed the petition on Thursday, July 17. The petition was submitted by lawyer Umer Ijaz Gilani on behalf of a coalition known as the Supporters of Afghan Migrants.

In its response, the court stated that reviewing or interfering with government decisions does not fall within its judicial authority. It emphasized that immigration policies are within the jurisdiction of the executive branch. This ruling comes amid a renewed wave of forced deportations of Afghan migrants, with thousands already being compelled to leave Pakistan.

In recent months, Pakistan has adopted a tougher stance toward Afghan migrants. Since last year, the government has begun deporting thousands of undocumented — and in some cases, even registered — Afghan refugees. This policy has drawn widespread international criticism, with human rights organizations repeatedly expressing concern about the humanitarian conditions faced by Afghan migrants in Pakistan.

With the rejection of this petition, the deportation process is expected to continue — and possibly intensify — in the coming weeks. Rights groups warn that many deportees may face serious risks upon return to Afghanistan, especially given the current socio-political instability there.

As Pakistan proceeds with its migration policy, the international community is likely to keep a close eye on the humanitarian consequences. Continued pressure from global human rights bodies may influence future decisions, but for now, the government’s stance remains unchanged.