The United Nations Committee against Torture has expressed serious concern over Pakistan’s mass deportation of Afghan refugees, including children, following the 2023 Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan.

In its findings on Pakistan’s implementation of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, the Committee flagged coercive measures used against Afghan nationals, including registered refugees. It said these actions were aimed at forcing them to return to Afghanistan despite risks of persecution, torture, or ill-treatment.

The Committee also called for a thorough investigation into allegations of police abuse against Afghan refugees, and said those responsible should face disciplinary or criminal action.

Expressing concern over the situation of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi, as well as activists Idris Khattak, Ali Wazir, and Mahrang Baloch, the Committee noted that their arbitrary detentions had been confirmed by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, including concerns over lack of access to medical care.