IHC Questions Authority of Session Judges to Block CNICs, Seeks Legal Assistance

Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court has raised serious questions over how session judges are issuing orders to block citizens’ Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs).

The remarks came during the hearing of a case challenging the blocking of a citizen’s CNIC, where Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar expressed surprise at the powers being exercised by session and additional session judges.

During the proceedings, the chief justice questioned the assistant attorney general, asking how such judges could issue orders of this magnitude. “It is surprising how session judges can pass such a major order like blocking CNICs. I do not understand why they are doing so,” he remarked.

He further directed the assistant attorney general to assist the court on the legal basis of such actions and clarify under what authority these orders are being issued.

Subsequently, the court adjourned the hearing, seeking detailed assistance from the assistant attorney general on the matter.