A Senate committee on Thursday approved a government bill allowing the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) to provisionally impound computerized national identity cards (CNICs) for up to two months, including those held by suspected illegal immigrants.
The National Database and Registration Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was passed by the Senate Standing Committee on Interior after officials said the changes were necessary to align Nadra’s legal framework with evolving national security requirements.
Officials told the committee that the CNIC serves as a critical national security instrument and that its misuse can threaten internal security, destabilize the economy, and damage Pakistan’s international standing.
Under the proposed amendments, Nadra will gain authority to provisionally impound CNICs while verification is underway. Currently, officials say the authority faces legal constraints because the law does not explicitly allow temporary impoundment.
Authorities said the new powers would help prevent absconders and suspects from using valid CNICs to access banking services, telecommunications networks, and other essential facilities while evading legal proceedings.
Officials assured the committee that the powers would remain time-bound and subject to due process, including written notice, an opportunity for the individual to respond, and defined timelines for administrative action.
Committee members also raised concerns that some Afghan nationals allegedly possess Pakistani CNICs, while some Pakistani citizens have reportedly had their cards blocked on suspicion of being Afghan nationals.
The committee chairman directed authorities to examine the issue and resolve it at the earliest.
During the meeting, officials from the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) briefed lawmakers on efforts to counter extremist narratives.
They said the authority has shifted from passive monitoring to an intelligence-led strategy, analyzing extremist material and producing counter-narratives through articles, videos, and lectures distributed across public platforms.
Officials added that Nacta has engaged civil society groups and launched educational initiatives in schools and universities to promote constitutional values and resilience among youth.
The committee also unanimously approved the Pakistan Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026, during the meeting.