The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has blocked over 71,000 Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) in the past five years due to various verification issues. The breakdown of the blocked cards across Pakistan shows:
- Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa: 25,981 CNICs
- Balochistan: 20,583 CNICs
- Punjab: 13,564 CNICs
- Sindh: 9,677 CNICs
- Islamabad: 1,370 CNICs
- Gilgit-Baltistan: 228 CNICs
- Azad Jammu and Kashmir: 446 CNICs
Following verification, 44,460 CNICs were unblocked, while 13,618 CNICs are still under investigation. In light of these issues, the Sindh government has formally requested an amendment to the Citizenship Act to address difficulties citizens face with the verification process.
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In another development, the government has blocked approximately 80,000 SIM cards to combat the spread of fake news. This measure is part of broader efforts to tackle misinformation on social media platforms. Sajid Mehdi, the Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Division, stated that the government has set up a joint task force to address the issue, and the task force’s report has been submitted to the Prime Minister.
Additionally, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016 is set for reforms to speed up the trial process for cases related to the spread of fake news. The government is also registering Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to better monitor online activities and prevent misuse. An awareness campaign has been launched to educate the public about the dangers of spreading false information, utilizing various media channels to inform citizens of the consequences.
These actions are aimed at mitigating the harmful effects of misinformation, ensuring better control and monitoring of digital platforms.
