Peshawar High Court grants bail to 68 detained Afghan nationals, including minors

The Peshawar High Court has granted bail to 68 Afghan nationals, including children under 18 and holders of Pakistan Origin Cards (POCs), ordering their release from detention.

The group had petitioned the court for relief after being held by authorities. In its ruling, the court approved bail for all applicants, with the inclusion of minors and documented individuals drawing particular attention to the case.

Among those released were Afghan nationals holding Pakistan Origin Cards—documents issued to people of Pakistani origin living abroad or those with established ties to the country. Their detention raised questions about the treatment and legal status of individuals with recognised documentation.

The presence of children in custody was also a key factor, with the court’s decision reflecting humanitarian considerations alongside legal arguments.

Pakistan hosts a large population of Afghan nationals, many of whom have lived in the country for decades. Their legal status has remained a complex and often contested issue, particularly amid recent crackdowns and repatriation efforts.

The ruling is expected to influence similar cases, especially those involving documented Afghan nationals and minors, as courts continue to weigh legal and humanitarian concerns.