ISLAMABAD: A Senate committee on Thursday approved a government bill granting the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) authority to temporarily block or impound Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) for up to two months, aiming to curb misuse and strengthen national security.
The National Database and Registration Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was passed after officials briefed lawmakers, saying the changes were necessary to help Nadra respond more effectively to emerging security challenges.
According to the bill’s statement of objects and reasons, CNICs are a vital national security tool, and their misuse can pose risks to internal stability, the economy, and Pakistan’s global reputation. Officials noted that Nadra previously lacked clear legal authority to provisionally block CNICs during verification, limiting its ability to act quickly in suspicious cases.
The proposed amendments are designed to address cases where individuals — including suspected illegal residents — evade legal proceedings while continuing to use valid CNICs for services like banking, travel, and SIM registration.
Authorities stressed that the powers would be exercised within a strict legal framework. Measures include written notice, the right to respond, and clearly defined time limits to ensure due process and prevent misuse of authority.
Nadra, which maintains Pakistan’s central citizen database, plays a critical role in issuing identity documents required for both public and private services. Officials said the amendments would help overcome operational challenges, particularly in dealing with offenders who avoid law enforcement.
Under the new framework, blocked CNICs would lead to restricted access to services such as mobile networks, financial systems, government facilities, and travel.
During the meeting, lawmakers raised concerns about reports that some Afghan nationals allegedly held Pakistani CNICs, while some citizens had their documents blocked on suspicion. The committee directed authorities to investigate and resolve these issues promptly.
Separately, the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) briefed the panel on its evolving counter-extremism strategy. Officials said the agency has shifted toward a proactive, intelligence-based approach, monitoring extremist content and producing counter-narratives through media, education, and outreach initiatives.
They added that since late 2025, a coordinated prevention plan involving 180 stakeholders has been rolled out, engaging civil society groups and educational institutions to promote constitutional values and counter radical ideologies.
The committee also unanimously approved the Pakistan Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026 without opposition from the interior ministry.