SHC Issues Arrest Warrant Over NADRA CNIC Delay

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Monday issued a bailable arrest warrant for NADRA’s Assistant Director of Verification. The court acted over the non-issuance of a CNIC to Karachi resident Maulana Abdul Bashar, despite repeated applications. Justice Muhammad Iqbal Kalhoro presided over the hearing and expressed strong disapproval of NADRA’s inaction. The court questioned why the CNIC had not been issued even though all documents were submitted. The judge said the applicant had been ignored since 2004 without a valid reason.

Justice Kalhoro sharply criticized NADRA officials for their bureaucratic negligence and failure to serve the public. He asked if NADRA had formed its own kingdom and said it seemed they were running a “state within a state.” The court noted that birth certificates for all 11 of Abdul Bashar’s children had already been issued. However, NADRA still refused to process the father’s CNIC application. No claim of fake documents had been made by NADRA in their response.

The petitioner, Maulana Abdul Bashar, said he had visited NADRA offices for more than 20 years but still had no CNIC. He explained that without his ID, his children were being denied school admissions. He blamed the ongoing suffering of his family on the failure of state institutions to act fairly. He told the court that despite his patience and full cooperation, NADRA continued to ignore his case. His plea focused on the impact on his children’s right to education.

The SHC was deeply concerned over NADRA’s continued delay and lack of justification. Justice Kalhoro pointed out that if NADRA had verified documents for the children, then verifying the father should not be an issue. The judge demanded answers and accountability from the authority. He warned that no department is above the law, and public servants must respect citizens’ rights. The court ordered strict follow-up actions if NADRA failed to comply.

The court adjourned the hearing for one week and ordered NADRA to submit a proper explanation. It also instructed officials to ensure the CNIC is processed without further delay. The case highlights ongoing public grievances with NADRA’s inefficiency. It also shows how bureaucratic delays can harm families and children’s futures. The SHC’s strong stance may pressure authorities to improve accountability and service delivery.