In a decisive move to curb illegal migration and protect Pakistan’s international reputation, the federal government has announced stringent measures targeting citizens deported from foreign countries. Effective immediately, deported individuals will face passport cancellation and the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs) against them. This policy shift aims to deter unlawful activities abroad and reinforce the integrity of Pakistan’s travel documentation system.(UrduPoint, Dawn, Daily Times)
🚨 Key Measures Implemented
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, during a high-level meeting in Islamabad on May 24, 2025, outlined the following actions:(Geo News)
- Passport Cancellation: Deported individuals will have their passports revoked upon return to Pakistan.(Daily Times)
- FIR Registration: Criminal cases will be filed against deportees to address their involvement in illegal activities abroad.(Facebook)
- Passport Control List (PCL): Names of deported citizens will be added to the PCL for five years, restricting their ability to obtain new travel documents.(ARY NEWS)
- Policy Review Committee: A committee led by the Interior Secretary has been established to strengthen passport issuance regulations and prevent misuse.
Minister Naqvi emphasized a zero-tolerance approach, stating that deportees have caused embarrassment to Pakistan on the international stage and will no longer be granted leniency. (Arab News)
📊 The Scale of the Issue
The decision follows alarming statistics regarding the deportation of Pakistani nationals:(Arab News)
- Saudi Arabia: Over 5,000 Pakistani beggars have been deported in the past 16 months.(Geo News)
- Other Countries: An additional 369 individuals were apprehended for begging in five other countries during the same period.(Dawn)
- Europe: In April alone, 106 Pakistanis deported from various European nations arrived in Islamabad.(Geo News)
These figures highlight a troubling trend of Pakistani citizens engaging in unlawful activities abroad, prompting the government to take corrective action.
🌐 International Repercussions
The surge in deportations, particularly for offenses like organized begging, has tarnished Pakistan’s global image. A viral video earlier this year featured a Pakistani woman revealing that her in-laws’ luxurious lifestyle was funded through professional begging, underscoring the extent of the issue. (@EconomicTimes)
By implementing these new measures, the government aims to:
- Deter Illegal Activities: Discourage citizens from engaging in unlawful conduct abroad.
- Enhance Accountability: Hold individuals accountable for actions that damage the country’s reputation.
- Strengthen Documentation Integrity: Ensure the Pakistani passport is not misused for illicit purposes.
🛂 Implications for Citizens
The government’s crackdown serves as a stern warning to those considering illegal migration or involvement in unlawful activities overseas. Citizens are urged to:
- Adhere to Legal Channels: Pursue overseas opportunities through authorized and legal means.
- Avoid Exploitative Practices: Refrain from engaging in activities that could lead to deportation and legal consequences.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of government policies regarding international travel and migration.
🔚 Conclusion
Pakistan’s decision to cancel passports and file FIRs against deported citizens marks a significant step in addressing illegal migration and its associated challenges. By enforcing strict measures, the government seeks to uphold national dignity, ensure the responsible use of travel documents, and protect the country’s standing on the global stage.