LHC Extends Stay on Deportation of Afghan Medical Students Amid Legal Challenge

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday extended a stay order against the expulsion and deportation of Afghan medical students, granting the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) additional time to respond to ongoing legal challenges. The court’s decision comes as over 30 Afghan students, including petitioner Syed Mubeenul Fatti, contest notifications issued for their deportation.

During the proceedings, Justice Khalid Ishaq heard arguments from the students’ counsel, who emphasized the importance of allowing these individuals to continue their education in Pakistan. A representative from the PMDC informed the court that the Prime Minister’s office had directed relevant authorities to permit Afghan students to pursue their studies, provided they meet valid visa and immigration requirements.

The implications of this ruling are significant, as it not only affects the educational futures of the Afghan students involved but also reflects Pakistan’s broader stance on immigration and educational policies for foreign nationals. The students have argued that the deportation notifications, issued on July 31 and September 1, are illegal and infringe upon their rights.

The court has adjourned the hearing to a date yet to be determined, while the PMDC has been instructed to submit a written response. The LHC’s extension of the stay order underscores the judiciary’s role in safeguarding the rights of foreign students amidst evolving immigration policies.