DLP Report
PESHAWAR
The provincial president of Awami National Party (ANP) Mian Iftikhar Hussain has urged the federal and provincial governments to take immediate steps for the safe return of Pakistani students stranded in Afghanistan due to prolonged border closures.
In a statement, he said that around 2,500 to 3,000 Pakistani students are currently facing severe difficulties in Afghanistan. Their academic sessions have concluded, but despite holidays, they remain unable to return home because the closure of border crossings has become a major obstacle.
Mian Iftikhar Hussain stressed that ongoing differences and rigid attitudes on the part of the authorities are adversely affecting students, trade, and employment.
He called on the government to set aside disputes and resolve the issue without further delay. He added that if overland travel is not possible, special flights should be arranged to facilitate the students’ safe return.
He further said that ANP Central President Senator Aimal Wali Khan has already formally approached the relevant Pakistani authorities and the Prime Minister’s Office through the party’s Central Spokesperson, Ihsanullah Khan.
Additionally, ANP Member of the KP Assembly Nisar Baz has repeatedly raised the matter on the floor of the provincial assembly. Despite these efforts, he regretted that no tangible progress has been made so far.
Mian Iftikhar Hussain expressed concern over the growing anxiety among parents, saying they are undergoing severe mental distress. He emphasized that it is the government’s responsibility to take prompt and effective action to address the issue and ensure the safe and timely return of the stranded students.
