Everyone witnessed America’s distress and global criticism over the Taliban’s return in Afghanistan. Not only did the Russian and Chinese blocs mock America’s evacuation efforts, but even Pakistanis didn’t hold back in ridiculing the U.S. for fleeing with its citizens and soldiers. Some called it untimely; others cursed the sluggishness of the American government.

America’s Betrayal of Afghan Allies

The reason behind this disgrace was betrayal. After surviving 20 years with Afghan allies’ help, when the American government decided to flee, those same Afghan allies were seen clinging to planes—proof of what happens when one loves foreigners too much. Because foreigners always leave one day. But when your own government betrays you, loyalty turns into punishment, hearts break, and minds are filled with anger.

Historical Parallels: Pakistan in 1971

Exactly 50 years ago today, on December 16, 1971, the same happened with patriotic Pakistanis. These were people who supported 90,000 Pakistani soldiers against Bengali extremists and Indian troops, out of their deep love for Pakistan. But Pakistan was split in two, and the hearts of many non-Bengalis in East Pakistan were shattered. Even then, they didn’t stop waving the Pakistani flag. They were declared foreigners in their own homeland. Despite everything, they didn’t change their loyalty.

The Pakistanis who migrated from India in 1947 had to once again prepare for displacement. The same homeland for which they sacrificed their lives and property now made them scapegoats and forced them to live in open camps like sacrificial animals. The Pakistani government evacuated its soldiers but left behind many patriotic civilians, as if Pakistan belonged only to generals—not to the general public.

Stateless Urdu-Speakers: Forgotten Patriots

Pakistan is the first country founded on the basis of religion; the second is Israel, founded a year later. The Israeli government invited all Jews from around the world to make Israel their home and gave them citizenship. They empowered their people, and their economy boomed—whether in high-tech, diamonds, or pharmaceuticals. That’s why, despite being only 14 million globally, Jews have more power than 1.4 billion Muslims.

The Camp Conditions After 1971

Now consider Pakistan’s actions. On December 16, when Bengali resentment over ethnic and systemic injustices reached its peak, they allied with the Indian army and disarmed Pakistani forces. In East Pakistan, with a population of 70 million, just 700,000 non-Bengalis suddenly became strangers in their own country. They were dragged from their homes and thrown into open camps. Sexual violence, physical torture, and death became their fate. History witnessed the largest group of “stateless people” in their own homeland.

Economic Fears and Government Apathy

They were forced into filthy, substandard refugee camps. Some were lucky enough to escape, but many remain even after 50 years, living in squalid conditions with their third and fourth generations in muddy slums, waiting to reach Pakistan. Even animals in government shelters live better. In these slums, there’s no electricity, no water, and no sewerage. Ten family members share tiny spaces. Trash clogs open drains, and rain brings filth into their huts. Women need four people to hold up sheets so they can bathe in private. Young boys shine shoes and drive rickshaws, trying to survive without citizenship.

Lessons from Israel’s Migration Policy

These non-Bengalis include people from UP, CP, and Bihar—Urdu speakers. First, they were called outsiders by Bengalis, then were given the label “Biharis.” One Pakistani president even called them “beggars.” The Bangladeshi government sees them as Pakistanis, and the Pakistani government fears that if they accept these 250,000 Pakistanis, the economy will suffer. Where would jobs come from? Like in the U.S., where immigrants face bias, some Pakistani ethnic groups fear job losses if these migrants are brought back.

A Call for Action and Empathy

Yet, we all believe in one truth: only what God wills happens. Many homes in Pakistan hang beautiful plaques reading “Wallah Khairur-Raziqeen” (Allah is the best provider), yet hearts remain anxious. To ease those hearts, here is good news: several Muslim countries are now ready to welcome these people. What’s needed is not money, but courage and empathy. Thank you.