The Lahore High Court has stepped in to protect Afghan medical students studying in Punjab. On Friday, Justice Khalid Ishaq ordered all medical colleges in the province not to expel these students. The decision came while hearing petitions filed by more than 30 Afghan students who faced removal from their colleges.
During the hearing, the lawyer for the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council argued that the students lacked the required documents. He stressed that no one can stay in a country without a valid visa, pointing to similar rules in places like the United States. Justice Ishaq questioned how the students received education visas in the first place if their documents were incomplete. He also criticized the plan to send them back after years of study, noting that the students should have been given a chance to present their side before any action.
The judge rejected claims linking the issue to state security. He clearly stated that no such security concern exists in this matter. Instead, he suggested the students could return home only after finishing their medical education. The court directed colleges not to expel the students or cancel their examination papers. Further proceedings were adjourned until next Friday.
This ruling follows a clarification from the PM&DC. The council stated there is no ban based on nationality for medical studies in Pakistan. It explained that its review of Afghan students focuses on proper documentation and regulatory rules, not discrimination. Pakistan continues to accept foreign students who meet academic, registration, and immigration requirements.
According to the PM&DC, more than 200 Afghan students are currently studying medicine in the country. However, only 22 are registered with the council. Of these, 14 have already completed their degrees, while eight are expected to graduate next year. The verification of the remaining students is still ongoing. The council also clarified that finishing a medical degree does not automatically allow students to stay in Pakistan for work or practice. Those who wish to practice here must complete all licensing and registration steps.
The court’s temporary ban brings relief to the affected students while the case continues. It highlights the need for fair process and proper documentation in medical education for foreign nationals.
