Arshad Chaiwala Challenges CNIC, Passport Block in Court

News Desk

Islamabad: Arshad Khan, popularly known as “Chaiwala,” has landed in serious legal trouble after authorities blocked his CNIC and passport. This action was taken amid the ongoing crackdown on Afghan refugees in Pakistan, during which he was asked to provide proof of citizenship.

Challenging this move, Arshad has taken the matter to the Lahore High Court (LHC). The Rawalpindi Bench of the LHC, presided over by Justice Jawad Hassan, has issued a written order in response to Arshad’s petition. Notices have been served to all relevant parties, including NADRA, with instructions to submit their replies by April 17.

In the petition, Arshad questioned the legality of NADRA’s decision to block his identification documents, which reportedly followed a TV channel’s broadcast of a rumour questioning his nationality. His legal counsel argued that the action has put Arshad’s future and professional career at risk.

The lawyer asserted that Arshad Khan is a Pakistani citizen with a well-documented family history of Pakistani nationality. He also argued that the requirement to present proof of citizenship prior to 1978 was both unfair and politically motivated.

Referring to the Pakistan Citizenship Act of 1951, he emphasized that holding a passport is a fundamental right for every Pakistani citizen.