Renting property to Afghan citizens, especially those who are undocumented or residing illegally in Pakistan, can indeed lead to legal action, including the registration of an FIR. The Punjab government, in particular, has taken stringent measures against landlords who lease their property to illegal Afghan nationals. Recent reports indicate that the Punjab Police have been directed to file FIRs against individuals who rent out spaces to undocumented Afghans. This includes action against landlords in cities like Rawalpindi and Attock. These measures stem from concerns regarding security and immigration control, with the government wanting to curb the rise in illegal Afghan immigrants.
According to the Punjab government’s directives, landlords are now required to register their tenants with the authorities, and failure to do so can lead to legal repercussions. A key point to note is that renting to a foreign national is not automatically an offence. However, if the Afghan tenant is undocumented, meaning they lack valid registration, visa, or any form of legal status, the landlord could face criminal charges. The legal framework that governs this includes the Punjab Information of Temporary Residents Act, 2015, which mandates that landlords provide tenant information to the police. If they fail to comply, it becomes a cognizable offence, meaning the police can file an FIR and begin an investigation.
It is crucial for landlords to verify their tenants’ documents before renting property. They should ask for proof of valid registration or visa, such as the Proof of Registration (PoR) card issued to Afghan refugees or the Afghan Citizen Card (ACC). Landlords should also ensure that they have a written lease agreement that complies with local laws. In areas like Islamabad and Rawalpindi, authorities have been actively cracking down on such violations. As such, it’s important to keep proper records and ensure tenants are legally registered.
For tenants, the situation is equally serious. Afghan nationals without the proper documentation are at risk of legal consequences, and their landlords may also face charges for harbouring illegal residents. To avoid issues, tenants should ensure they hold valid documentation and, where required, get their registration updated. If you are a landlord or tenant in a situation where you might be facing this kind of legal issue, consulting a lawyer can be crucial to understanding the specific laws and your rights.
In summary, yes, there is a possibility of an FIR being filed if a landlord rents out property to Afghan nationals who do not have the proper legal documentation. Landlords must verify the legal status of their tenants and ensure proper registration with authorities. The government’s decision to enforce stricter controls on property leasing to foreign nationals is clear, and the legal consequences for non-compliance can be severe. It is essential to follow the legal procedures to avoid complications, particularly in areas where such enforcement is actively taking place.
