Sanam Saeed says deporting refugees will not make Pakistan's fundamental issues go away

Actor calls for compassion and mercy in such trying times

The mass expulsion of Afghan refugees from Pakistan has garnered significant attention in recent weeks, with human rights groups and prominent individuals expressing their concerns over the treatment of these displaced individuals. Sanam Saeed, a prominent actor, has joined the chorus of voices advocating for compassion and mercy toward these refugees. On November 1, 2023, the deadline for all "illegal aliens" to leave Pakistan, she took to Twitter to share her thoughts, urging the government to reconsider its stance.

In her tweet, Sanam Saeed pointed out that forcibly removing those seeking shelter will not address Pakistan's fundamental issues. She noted that this action might seem like an attempt to shift blame from the challenges the government and the country are facing. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of displaying more mercy during these trying times in the world. Her tweet underscores a critical aspect of the debate surrounding the Afghan refugee crisis 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

“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 government or the country overall is facing. At a time like this in the world right now, we need to show more mercy,” she tweeted with a hashtag addressing the government of Pakistan.

As the New York Times reported, the Pakistani government issued a deportation order, largely targeting Afghan migrants, which resulted in the expulsion of over 70,000 undocumented Afghans in the weeks leading up to the November 1. The deportation order has put immense pressure on the estimated 1.7 million Afghans living illegally in Pakistan. Landlords have evicted Afghan tenants to avoid fines, and employers have terminated undocumented Afghan workers. The police have conducted raids in Afghan-populated neighbourhoods, arresting those without proper documentation.

Human rights groups have condemned Pakistan's actions, expressing concern that some Afghans could face persecution in Afghanistan due to their past ties to Taliban opponents. Despite the criticism, Pakistani officials have remained steadfast in their policy, establishing deportation centres nationwide to detain and repatriate Afghan refugees.

The situation has reached a critical juncture as thousands of Afghans are returning to Afghanistan daily, overwhelming authorities and aid groups at border crossings. Saeed's plea for mercy resonates with those who believe that the situation calls for a more understanding and humane response.