The high court’s constitutional bench heard a petition filed by 28 Turkish immigrants seeking a delay in their expulsion from Pakistan. The case raised questions about immigration status, legal documentation, and long-term residence in the country.
During the hearing, Justice Yousuf Ali Saeed questioned how the court could stop the government from expelling foreigners staying illegally. He noted that the petitioners were Turkish immigrants and asked why they had been living in Afghan refugee camps despite holding Turkish nationality.
The petitioners’ lawyer informed the court that the individuals were citizens of Turkey. However, he admitted they had been residing in Afghan refugee camps for many years. This statement prompted further questions from the bench.
The court asked when the Turkish immigrants had first arrived in Pakistan. The lawyer replied that they entered the country around 45 years ago. He explained that they had come for religious preaching and later settled in refugee camps.
Justice Saeed then asked whether the petitioners had documents to confirm their Turkish nationality. The lawyer responded that they currently did not possess valid papers. He said the lack of documentation was the main reason for seeking relief from the court.
The lawyer requested a four-month stay order. He argued this time was needed to contact authorities and complete the documentation process. He stressed that immediate expulsion would cause hardship to the Turkish immigrants, who have lived in the region for decades.
However, the bench expressed concern over the absence of legal records. Justice Yousuf Ali Saeed stated that the court could not intervene without valid documents. He said the judiciary could not restrain the government from enforcing immigration laws.
The judge advised the petitioners to contact the Turkish Consulate or the Embassy. He said these institutions were the proper channels to verify nationality and issue documents. Without official confirmation, the court’s options were limited.
The hearing highlighted the broader issue of undocumented foreign nationals living in Pakistan for long periods. Authorities have recently increased scrutiny of illegal residents as part of a wider enforcement drive.
The case of the Turkish immigrants reflects the legal challenges faced by individuals lacking formal identity papers. It also underlines the importance of consular support in resolving nationality disputes.
After hearing arguments from both sides, the court indicated it could not grant the requested relief. The matter was disposed of with directions for the petitioners to seek assistance from diplomatic missions.
The decision reaffirmed the government’s authority to act against illegal stay while emphasizing lawful procedures for documentation and verification.
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