ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) has stated that an increase in identity card fees is necessary to expand its network of offices, according to Geo News.
Despite the opening of additional offices, long wait times for individuals seeking to update or renew their computerized national identity cards (CNICs) persist, suggesting that the expansion has not fully addressed the issue.
Nadra Chairman Lieutenant General Muhammad Munir Afsar explained that “61 tehsils in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan” still lack Nadra offices.
Afsar made these remarks during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior, chaired by Raja Khurram Nawaz, to discuss various concerns related to the authority on Monday. The committee discussed Nadra’s challenges in expanding its network, the potential fee hikes for CNICs, and issues around security and system efficiency.
Afsar emphasized that expanding Nadra’s offices would require an increase in CNIC fees due to financial constraints. He clarified that Nadra is self-funded and has not raised fees or conducted a widespread CNIC renewal campaign recently.
“We cannot expand Nadra offices without adjusting fees,” Afsar explained, noting that the current fee structure has remained unchanged since former Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani made the first CNICs free through an executive order.
In response, the committee chairman expressed concerns over the affordability of ID cards for many Pakistanis and urged the agency to explore alternative funding options.
Several committee members voiced frustration, pointing out that newly formed districts like Murree and Talagang still lack Nadra facilities.
Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhary suggested making the first CNIC free to help citizens access this essential ID without financial strain.
However, Nadra officials clarified that the agency generates funds through CNIC renewals and new applications.
The committee also raised concerns over security issues, particularly fraudulent CNICs. Dr. Chaudhary highlighted the prevalence of fake CNICs among Afghans.
Lt Gen Afsar assured the committee that the agency monitors hundreds of individuals daily to detect data leaks and prevent unauthorized CNIC issuances.
Committee member Agha Rafiullah expressed frustration over unresolved issues faced by the Bihari community, reminding the committee of past commitments to address the matter before passing any government bills.
Dr. Chaudhary supported this stance, reiterating his commitment to resolving the issue.
The reappointment of Munib Cheema, a former official removed due to data leaks, was questioned by committee member Nabeel Gabol, who called for more stringent controls within Nadra.
