The Sindh High Court (SHC) has paused a decision by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) that ordered Afghan medical and dental students to cancel their studies and go back to Afghanistan. This court ruling gives massive relief to many Afghan students who are currently studying in Pakistan.
What Was the PMDC’s Order?
On July 31 and September 1, the PMDC issued rules telling all medical and dental colleges in Pakistan to:
1. Stop taking any new students from Afghanistan.
2. Cancel the admissions of Afghan students who are already studying here.
3. Tell these students to leave Pakistan and go back home.
Why Students Went to Court
Female Afghan students took the matter to court with the help of their lawyers. They argued that:
It goes against the law: Forcing them out without a fair process violates basic rights under Pakistan’s Constitution. It is dangerous for women: Sending female students back to Afghanistan means they will face strict bans on education and lose their freedom under the Taliban government.
How the Court Helped the Students
The court stopped the PMDC’s orders. Because of this decision:
1. Universities cannot kick students out of their hostels.
2. Students can keep going to their classes normally.
3. Students are allowed to take their medical exams.