The federal government has decided to criminalise begging abroad by Pakistani citizens, labelling it as an act of terrorism. The move comes after repeated complaints from countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which have deported large numbers of Pakistani nationals for begging.
The Interior Ministry is now working on strict legislation to deter this practice. Under the new policy, individuals deported for begging will have their passports blocked and will face legal proceedings upon their return to Pakistan.
The development was announced after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry visited the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports. The ministers later addressed the media, sharing key decisions regarding immigration, illegal travel, and national security.
Naqvi stressed that all legal steps for implementing the new passport rules must be completed swiftly. He said that the changes aim to crack down on both begging and illegal immigration, calling for 100 percent enforcement of the passport-blocking directive for deportees.
“This step will convey a strong message to the international community,” said Talal Chaudhry, who confirmed that foreign countries would be required to submit evidence when deporting Pakistani nationals for begging.
Chaudhry added that the government plans to introduce stricter vetting for individuals travelling to Gulf countries, especially Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where most complaints originate.
“Begging abroad will now be treated as an act of terrorism,” Chaudhry told reporters, noting that tough new laws will be enacted to ensure strict deterrence.
When asked about deportations from Western nations, he clarified that Pakistan would receive deportees from the US, UK, EU, or elsewhere, as long as their identity could be confirmed.
The minister also spoke about his recent visit to the UK for the Border Security Summit. He said Pakistan assured participating countries of its commitment to ending illegal immigration, while also urging them to facilitate legal migration by streamlining visa processes.