ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Rehman Malik on Tuesday warned overstaying foreigners in Pakistan to get their stay regularised otherwise they would face legal action including heavy fines.

Speaking to media representatives after chairing a meeting at the passport and immigration office headquarters, he said the foreign nationals will have to get their stay regularised within fifteen days. “We will not allow them to overstay in Pakistan after expiry of their visas,” he added.

The minister said he has constituted a task force to check the foreigners staying in the country illegally.

Listing different decisions taken in the meeting, he said students of colleges, universities and madrassas coming from abroad will be treated on equality and added that if any terrorist comes to Pakistan pretending as a student, action will also be taken against his/her sponsors.

Upcoming polls

He said despite of all security concerns, the general elections will be held on time. “There is a mindset who wants to disrupt the electoral process, but we are committed to conduct the polls on time and in a democratic manner,” Malik added.

Answering a question, he said situation in Balochistan is gradually improving, adding that the worsening law and order in Quetta was part of an international conspiracy.

The minister reiterated that foreign elements were involved in creating law and order situation in Balochistan.

Deportation of former Ogra chief

Commenting on deportation of the former Ogra chief, Malik said the FIA director general and the NAB chairman would ensure Tauqir Sadiq’s deportation to Pakistan. In this regard a team would be sent to bring Sadiq back to the country, he added.

Terrorism and peace talks

Answering another question, he said Pakistan did its best with regard to biometric system at Pakistan-Afghanistan border check post but it is regrettable that nothing has been done from Afghan side. He said Pakistan would not permit any movement from March 1.

With regard to dialogue with Taliban, Malik said they should show seriousness and send such representatives who could hold meaningful talks.

Taliban should know that people of Pakistan have seen their actual face and nation would never forgive them. Waliur Rehman and Hakimullah Mehsud should announce ceasefire to show a willing gesture, he added.