LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: The Lahore High Court (LHC) Rawalpindi Bench has issued a written order in the case filed by viral social media sensation Arshad Khan, widely known as “Chaiwala,” who is contesting the cancellation of his national identity card (CNIC) and passport.
Justice Jawad Hassan presided over the case and has issued notices to all relevant parties, including the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), instructing them to submit their responses by April 17.
In his petition, Khan challenged the legality of NADRA’s move to block his CNIC and passport, triggered by a rumor aired on television questioning his nationality. His lawyer argued that the action has severely harmed his career and future prospects, particularly as a public figure with international engagements.
Khan’s legal counsel asserted that he is a legitimate Pakistani citizen, with family records supporting their longstanding Pakistani nationality. He criticized NADRA’s alleged demand for pre-1978 citizenship proof as unlawful and discriminatory, pointing out that under the Pakistan Citizenship Act of 1951, every citizen has a constitutional right to a passport.
Conversely, the government’s legal team argued that Khan has not produced sufficient documentation to prove his citizenship and defended the ID and passport block as a legally warranted step.
The court has instructed the government’s counsel to ensure that all relevant agencies submit detailed reports on the matter before the next hearing on April 17.
