Islamabad: Pakistan is facing a fresh wave of international embarrassment. Once notorious globally as a hub for terrorism, the country is now being spotlighted for supplying beggars abroad. Recently, Saudi Arabia deported 56,000 Pakistanis for begging, making headlines worldwide. The United Arab Emirates and Azerbaijan have also taken similar action against large numbers of Pakistani beggars.
In response to the growing shame, Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, has announced strict measures. Speaking during a visit to Lahore Airport on Sunday, accompanied by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, Naqvi stated, “Those who tarnish Pakistan’s image should face imprisonment. Professional beggars or individuals with incomplete travel documents must not be allowed to travel.” He added that protecting Pakistan’s dignity and ensuring passenger convenience remain top priorities.
Review of Immigration Process
During the airport visit, Minister Naqvi reviewed the immigration process for international travelers, emphasizing tighter checks and stronger enforcement to prevent illegal or fraudulent departures.
Rising Numbers of Deported Travelers
According to Pakistani media, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) revealed before a parliamentary panel that 66,154 travelers were prevented from flying abroad this year due to involvement in begging or suspicion over travel documents—an increase from 35,000 last year. Of these, 51,000 were stopped due to concerns regarding the authenticity of their travel documents.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently chaired a meeting at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad to review measures to prevent citizens with incomplete documentation from traveling abroad.
This development highlights a new dimension of Pakistan’s international reputation crisis, as authorities rush to tighten regulations and prevent further embarrassment.
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