Senate Standing Committee on Interior has approved the National Database and Registration Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2026, giving Nadra the power to provisionally impound computerised national identity cards of individuals, including suspected illegal aliens, for up to two months. The amendments aim to address operational challenges faced by Nadra in temporarily blocking CNICs pending verification, particularly in cases where individuals evade legal proceedings or law enforcement directions. Officials emphasized that CNICs are a critical national security instrument, and their misuse can undermine internal stability, economic integrity, and Pakistan’s international standing. The bill introduces clear procedural safeguards, including written notice, the opportunity to respond, and defined timelines, to ensure balance between security measures and citizens’ rights.
Nadra officials explained that CNICs are essential for accessing public and private services such as banking, government facilities, travel, and mobile network registration. By allowing provisional impoundment, the amendments aim to prevent absconders and offenders from using valid CNICs while evading justice. The framework restricts access to SIM card registration, network services, and other CNIC-linked government services during the period of administrative action. The committee also discussed concerns about some Afghan nationals still possessing Pakistani CNICs and Pakistani citizens whose CNICs were blocked under suspicion of being non-citizens, directing authorities to address these issues promptly.
During the same session, National Counter Terrorism Authority officials briefed the committee on counter-extremism efforts, noting a shift from passive monitoring to a proactive, intelligence-driven approach. Nacta’s specialised wing continuously analyses extremist content, including social media, publications, and videos, to develop targeted counter-narratives. Since November 2025, a multi-tiered system integrating 180 stakeholders has been implemented under the national prevention plan. In addition, 32 civil society organisations have been engaged, and educational initiatives have been launched in schools and universities to promote resilience among youth and reinforce constitutional values. Nacta has also highlighted federalism and democratic safeguards while addressing secessionist narratives by showcasing Balochistan’s socio-cultural diversity and development progress.
The committee further considered and unanimously approved the Pakistan Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026, without objection from the interior ministry. Officials stressed that the amendments are narrowly tailored and time-bound to prevent misuse of authority, while ensuring due process is strictly followed. The primary objective remains preventing absconders or individuals involved in criminal activity from exploiting CNICs to access essential services. The session concluded with the committee chairman directing Nadra and related authorities to implement the changes efficiently and resolve pending discrepancies related to CNIC possession, ensuring operational clarity while safeguarding procedural rights of citizens.
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