Pakistan Blocks Nearly 195,000 CNICs in Last Three Years

ISLAMABAD – The Ministry of Interior informed the Senate that 195,000 computerized national identity cards (CNICs) have been blocked in Pakistan over the past three years. Officials said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reported the highest number with 72,703 CNICs blocked, followed by Sindh with 49,666 cases. Punjab recorded 29,852 blocked cards, while Balochistan accounted for 34,990. Islamabad had 5,731 blocked CNICs. Meanwhile, Azad Jammu and Kashmir reported 1,410, and Gilgit-Baltistan had 758 blocked identity cards.

The Interior Ministry revealed that 130,885 CNICs were blocked under Section 18 of the NADRA regulations. Additionally, 64,225 identity cards were blocked based on court orders. Over the same period, more than 46,000 CNICs were restored to citizens. Officials emphasized that inquiries continue on remaining cases. They confirmed that 148,000 CNICs remain blocked as investigations are ongoing.

NADRA explained that identity cards were blocked primarily due to incorrect information provided by applicants. Many cases also involve pending legal actions. Authorities highlighted that the measure ensures the integrity of Pakistan’s identification system. The step aims to prevent fraudulent use of CNICs in legal and financial transactions. NADRA officials said this process strengthens national security and public record accuracy.

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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan accounted for the bulk of blocked CNICs. Officials noted that major urban centers also reported high numbers. Authorities are coordinating with local offices to resolve discrepancies. Citizens with blocked CNICs can apply for restoration following legal verification. This approach ensures transparency and accountability across regions.

The Ministry and NADRA stressed that ongoing reforms will improve identification systems nationwide. New measures aim to reduce errors and fraudulent CNIC issuance. Citizens are urged to provide accurate information during registration or updates. Authorities plan to complete pending investigations efficiently. These efforts are part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to maintain a secure, reliable national identity database.