The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has blocked more than 71,000 Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) across Pakistan over the past five years. According to a report, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa recorded the highest number of blocked CNICs at 25,981, followed by Balochistan with 20,583. Punjab saw 13,564 cards blocked, while Sindh had the lowest number at 9,677. Other regions affected include Islamabad (1,370), Gilgit-Baltistan (228), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (446).
NADRA’s documentation reveals that after verification, 44,460 CNICs were unblocked, while investigations continue for 13,618 blocked cards. The government has emphasized the need for a legal review, with the Sindh government formally requesting an amendment to the Citizenship Act to address issues related to blocked IDs and the verification process.
In a related development, the government has blocked approximately 80,000 SIM cards to combat the spread of fake news, as reported by Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Division, Sajid Mehdi, in the National Assembly. This action is part of a broader effort to address misinformation on social media platforms.
Responding to a calling attention notice in the National Assembly, Mehdi outlined several measures the government has implemented to tackle the issue. These include the formation of a joint task force, which has submitted its report to the Prime Minister, underscoring the seriousness of the problem.
Mehdi highlighted the need for reforms in the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016, to expedite the trial of cases related to the dissemination of false information. The government has also begun registering Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to enhance monitoring and control of online activities.
An awareness campaign has been launched to educate the public about the risks and consequences of spreading fake news, utilizing various media tools to inform citizens about the impact of misinformation on society.
“The government’s proactive steps, including blocking SIM cards and revising laws, are aimed at mitigating the harmful effects of fake news,” Mehdi stated during the session. He added that the task force’s ongoing work would continue to address the issue
