Senate Panel Approves NADRA Amendment Bill Granting Powers to Block CNICs

Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Interior has approved a key amendment bill related to National Database and Registration Authority, granting it expanded powers to temporarily block citizens’ Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs).

Under the proposed amendments, NADRA will be authorized to block any individual’s CNIC for up to 60 days in cases deemed suspicious. The final draft of the bill will now be presented before the Senate of Pakistan for formal approval in an upcoming session.

During the meeting, officials from the Ministry of Interior Pakistan emphasized that the CNIC is a highly sensitive document linked to national security. They argued that its misuse could pose serious threats to both the country’s security and economy.

Authorities also noted that the absence of clear legal provisions has created operational challenges for NADRA, often allowing individuals involved in suspicious activities to evade legal scrutiny. According to officials, some individuals deliberately avoid cooperating with authorities during verification processes.

The amendment aims to provide NADRA with legal backing to act swiftly by blocking questionable CNICs and bringing individuals under investigation, thereby preventing misuse and ensuring the integrity of the national database system.