Taliban Embassy in Islamabad Denies Afghan Refugees’ Involvement in Pakistan Protests
The Taliban Embassy in Islamabad has categorically denied claims that Afghan refugees participated in recent anti-government protests in Pakistan.
The Taliban Embassy in Islamabad has categorically denied claims that Afghan refugees participated in recent anti-government protests in Pakistan.
In an official statement, the embassy expressed concern that such allegations, made by the Pakistani Interior Minister and other officials, could serve as justification for the harassment and mistreatment of Afghan refugees in the country.
Earlier, Pakistan’s Interior Ministry accused Afghan refugees of taking part in protests against the government, stating that at least 37 Afghan nationals were arrested during the demonstrations. The country’s Minister of Information and Culture also alleged that Afghan citizens had been involved in protests organised by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Meanwhile, the Punjab government announced its intention to disclose the identities of Afghan participants in the demonstrations.
Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, declared on Wednesday that Afghan citizens without proper documentation would not be permitted to reside in Islamabad after 31 December.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Taliban Embassy dismissed these accusations as unfounded and voiced concerns that such rhetoric could lead to unjust treatment and harassment of Afghan refugees by Pakistani law enforcement agencies.
The embassy stated: “Afghan refugees in Pakistan have never engaged in political activities or criminal acts. They have consistently lived peacefully and made positive contributions to Pakistan’s economy.”
The Taliban Embassy called on the Pakistani government to avoid creating an atmosphere of distrust towards Afghan refugees, warning that such an environment could exacerbate incidents of harassment, damage reputations, and result in forced deportations.
The statement also cautioned that continuing these policies would be detrimental to Pakistan’s interests and could further strain relations between the two neighbouring nations.
The allegations surfaced following protests led by supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, demanding the release of Imran Khan from prison. Thousands of PTI supporters responded to Khan’s call for action last Monday, marching towards Islamabad and clashing with police upon entering the capital.
The protests were subsequently quelled, with Pakistani police arresting dozens of demonstrators. Reports indicated that several individuals were killed during the clashes.
