ISLAMABAD; The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday dismissed a plea seeking a stay order against the repatriation of registered Afghan refugees, stating that it would not intervene in government policy decisions.
Justice Inaam Ameen Minhas presided over the hearing on a petition filed by former Senator Farhatullah Babar. Advocate Umar Ijaz Gilani, representing the petitioner, requested the court to halt the government’s repatriation efforts until a final decision is reached in the case.
However, Justice Minhas firmly stated that the court would not obstruct the government’s policy regarding Afghan refugees. “The policy is clear—registered Afghans are required to return to their country by June 30,” he remarked, adding that the judiciary cannot interfere in this matter.
He further noted that the government has clarified its position, stating that no formal agreement or treaty exists to continue hosting the refugees beyond the deadline. “If no legal framework is in place, no protection can be offered after June 30,” Justice Minhas observed.
The court then adjourned the case without granting interim relief, effectively upholding the government’s decision to proceed with the repatriation process.
The development comes amid growing concerns among refugee advocates and human rights groups, who have urged authorities to reconsider the policy, citing humanitarian grounds. However, the government maintains that the repatriation is being conducted in line with national interest and administrative considerations. The case remains pending, but for now, the court has sided with the government’s stance on the issue.
