The Lahore High Court (LHC) Rawalpindi Bench has issued a written order in the case filed by social media personality Arshad Khan, famously known as “Chaiwala”, challenging the cancellation of his national identity card (CNIC) and passport. The court, led by Justice Jawad Hassan, has issued notices to all relevant parties, including the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), directing them to submit their responses by April 17.
In his petition, Arshad Khan questioned the legality of NADRA’s decision to block his CNIC and passport, which followed rumors aired on a TV channel questioning his nationality. Khan’s lawyer argued that this action has severely impacted his professional career and future prospects. The petitioner’s counsel emphasized that Khan is a Pakistani citizen, with a documented history of citizenship within his family. He further contended that the demand for proof of citizenship prior to 1978 was unjust and malicious, asserting that under the Pakistan Citizenship Act of 1951, every citizen has the fundamental right to a passport.
Also Read: LHC Directs Early Market Closures to Reduce Smog
The government’s legal counsel, however, raised objections to the petition’s maintainability, arguing that Khan failed to provide sufficient documentation to prove his Pakistani citizenship. The government maintained that the blocking of his CNIC and passport was lawful and necessary as per the court’s prior order.
The court has directed the government’s legal representatives to ensure that all relevant departments submit their reports before the next hearing, which is scheduled for April 17.
