Islamabad [Pakistan]: A high-level Pakistani government panel, known as the Harden the State Committee, convened on Monday under the leadership of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to discuss key national security issues. The primary focus was on the deportation of illegal immigrants, human smuggling prevention, stricter penalties for organised begging, and the digitisation of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Dawn reported.
Panel Formed to Strengthen National Security
The Harden the State Committee was formed on January 28 following directives issued at the Apex Committee meeting on January 3. This was the panel’s second session, held just a week before the government’s deadline for undocumented foreigners to voluntarily leave Pakistan.
Deportation and Human Smuggling Countermeasures
Officials confirmed that the expulsion of illegal immigrants will be carried out in accordance with national security policies. Discussions also revolved around effective enforcement mechanisms for removing undocumented foreigners and dismantling human trafficking networks.
Stricter Penalties for Organised Begging
The panel reviewed harsher punishments for professional beggars exploiting the system. Authorities emphasized the need to tackle organised begging through strict legal frameworks.
Digitisation of the FBR
A significant part of the meeting focused on digitising the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to enhance transparency, efficiency, and financial regulation. Modern technological solutions will be used to streamline operations and improve revenue collection.
High-Level Participation for Comprehensive Security
Senior officials from key divisions, including the Interior and Petroleum Divisions, the FBR chairman, and various intelligence agencies such as the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Military Intelligence (MI), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Military Operations Directorate, and Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) participated in the meeting. Provincial counterterrorism departments were also represented, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling national security concerns.
Deadline for Voluntary Departure Approaches
With the government’s deadline for voluntary departure approaching, authorities are intensifying efforts to ensure smooth enforcement of expulsion policies while addressing broader security challenges linked to illegal migration and organised crime.
