Second generation: ‘Afghan refugees should be given nationality’

The ANP leader says they deserve this identity as they have been living in the country for more than 30 years

PESHAWAR:

Awami National Party senior leader Haji Muhammad Adeel has demanded the government give Pakistani nationality to Afghan refugees. He says they deserve this identity as they have been living in the country for more than 30 years.

In a press release issued on Sunday from Bacha Khan Markaz in the city, Adeel said it was ironic Pakistanis living abroad were given nationalities by western countries but in Pakistan, the government has decided to expel refugees.

He said those Afghan refugees who have been living here for the past thirty years and have established businesses should not be expelled.

The ANP leader pointed out if refugees were made part of Pakistan officially, they could pay millions in taxes and could serve the country in every field. “The government should give them nationality to make them a useful part of this society,” the handout quoted Adeel as saying.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 25^th,  2016.