NADRA Confirms Pakistani Citizenship of Arshad Chaiwala

The Rawalpindi Bench of the Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday ordered the restoration of the national identity card belonging to Arshad Khan, popularly known as “Arshad Chaiwala,” the tea vendor who rose to fame after his picture at a roadside stall went viral on social media.

Following the court’s directive, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) reinstated Arshad’s CNIC. NADRA’s Verification Board also confirmed that Arshad Khan and his family are verified Pakistani citizens.

During the hearing, Arshad’s counsel Omar Ijaz Gilani informed the court that his client’s issue had been fully resolved. On this basis, the court disposed of the petition at the request of the petitioner.

Earlier, NADRA had blocked Arshad’s passport and identity card without formal notice, prompting him to approach the court. The bench observed that such actions amounted to a violation of a citizen’s constitutional rights, as no one could be deprived of their legal identification without due process.

With the restoration of his documents, the court concluded the proceedings, reaffirming Arshad Khan’s Pakistani citizenship and closing the case.