Identity crisis : PHC seeks NADRA’s reply in CNIC case

Shad Muhammad’s ID card held by the authority since 2011.

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court issued a notice to the NADRA chairman on Monday for blocking the computerised national identity card of a citizen and ordered him to submit a reply in the case.

A writ petition filed by Shad Muhammad, through his counsel Saifullah Sadeeq, was heard by the division bench of justices Younis Taheem and Roohul Amin.

Sadeeq argued his client had applied for the renewal of his CNIC in 2011, but NADRA had blocked it. He stated this was done despite all evidence being provided to show the CNIC was yet to be released and the applicant’s entire family had identity cards.

Sadeeq pointed out his client had also been cleared in a Special Branch enquiry and a civil court had ruled in his favour. He contended NADRA officials were using delaying tactics and excuses, resulting in numerous difficulties for Shad.



“It is almost impossible for him to travel without a CNIC and he is sometimes kept waiting at checkpoints to prove his identity.

Besides, he faces problems availing health facilities and has a tough time with school admissions for his children,” Sadeeq informed the court.

He requested the bench to order NADRA to release his client’s CNIC. After hearing the arguments, the bench issued a notice to the authority’s chairman.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 3^rd, 2015.