In a session of the lower house of parliament, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar assured lawmakers that stringent data verification measures are in place to prevent the issuance of Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) and passports to non-Pakistanis. This statement was made in response to concerns raised by Members of the National Assembly (MNAs) Sehar Kamran and Noor Alam Khan regarding the alleged illegal issuance of these documents to Afghan nationals.

Minister Tarar highlighted the installation of new scanners and advanced machines at passport offices across the country, which have significantly enhanced the verification process. He detailed the rigorous three-tier scrutiny process for Afghan nationals applying for passports. This process includes mandatory attestation from a gazetted officer, re-verification of the attestation issuing authority, and final data confirmation through the Family Registration Certificate (FRC) database maintained by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).

In addition to passport verification, Tarar emphasized that NADRA’s data is meticulously checked to ensure accuracy and prevent misuse. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is actively investigating the issuance of CNICs to non-Pakistanis.

The minister urged individuals with information about illegal activities or private rackets to report their findings to the relevant authorities for appropriate action. “Verification steps have been increased, and every document is meticulously verified. Applicants must provide proof of residence,” he stated, underscoring NADRA’s status as one of the most technologically advanced databases.

Tarar also noted that many departments utilize NADRA data for face verification and other confirmations. Speaker of the National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq acknowledged past lapses involving NADRA officials, who were subsequently arrested, and expressed hope that such issues would not recur.