The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has cancelled approximately 4.2 million Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) belonging to deceased individuals across Pakistan.
Officials say the move is part of a broader effort to update and strengthen the national registration system. The step aims to ensure that government records remain accurate and reliable.
According to a spokesperson from National Database and Registration Authority, the CNICs were cancelled after the deaths were recorded in provincial civil registration systems.
However, in many cases, families had not formally applied for the cancellation of the identity cards. This created a gap between death registration and identity record updates.
By removing these inactive records, authorities hope to improve transparency in the national database and reduce the risk of misuse.
Families Also Cancel Millions of CNICs Voluntarily
The database update campaign has also encouraged families to cancel identity cards of deceased relatives voluntarily.
Officials said nearly 3 million CNICs were cancelled after families contacted NADRA to update records.
In many situations, family members had registered the death with local authorities but had not completed the CNIC cancellation process.
NADRA emphasized that updating these records is important for maintaining accurate demographic data. It also helps prevent possible misuse of identity cards belonging to deceased individuals.
Authorities say such steps strengthen administrative processes and improve national security measures.
The registration authority continues to encourage citizens to report deaths and update records promptly.
Citizens Can Report Errors and Seek Verification
NADRA acknowledged that errors may occur during large-scale database updates.
In cases where a CNIC is cancelled mistakenly, affected individuals can contact the National Database and Registration Authority for clarification.
Officials said individuals should approach their relevant Union Council or NADRA office to verify their records.
The authority will provide assistance to resolve any issues related to identity card status.
NADRA also advised citizens to regularly check their registration details and ensure that personal records remain accurate.
Such measures help maintain the integrity of Pakistan’s national identification system.
NADRA Highlights Gap in Child Birth Registration
While updating its database, NADRA also identified a gap in birth registration records.
According to officials, around 14 million births have been recorded at Union Councils. However, these records have not yet been fully updated in the NADRA database.
To address the issue, the authority has started sending SMS reminders to parents and guardians.
The messages encourage families to complete the registration process and obtain the child registration certificate known as Form-B.
Officials say timely registration helps children access essential services such as education, healthcare, and government programs.
NADRA also plans to expand its registration services in the near future.
The authority will soon provide child registration certificates through its e-Service franchise network. This initiative aims to make the process faster and more accessible for citizens across the country.
Officials believe that improved digital systems and public awareness campaigns will help strengthen Pakistan’s national identity database in the coming years.
