CNICs Blocked by Region
The breakdown of the 71,459 blocked Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) across Pakistan reveals a regional distribution as follows:
- Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa: 25,981 CNICs blocked
- Balochistan: 20,583 CNICs blocked
- Punjab: 13,564 CNICs blocked
- Sindh: 9,677 CNICs blocked
- Islamabad: 1,370 CNICs blocked
- Gilgit-Baltistan: 228 CNICs blocked
- Azad Jammu and Kashmir: 446 CNICs blocked
NADRA’s Efforts and Legal Analysis
According to NADRA’s letter, 44,460 CNICs have been unblocked after a clearing process, and the verification of 13,618 blocked cards is currently underway. The government has emphasized the need for a legal analysis regarding the issue.
The Sindh government has officially written to amend the Citizenship Act in response to concerns over blocked identities and the difficulties faced by citizens during the verification process.
Efforts to Combat Fake News
Blocked SIM Cards and New Measures
Yesterday, Sajid Mehdi, the Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Division, informed the National Assembly that the government has blocked approximately 80,000 SIM cards to combat the spread of fake news on social media. This is part of an ongoing effort to address misinformation concerns.
In response to a calling attention notice in the National Assembly, Mehdi highlighted various steps the government is taking to address the growing issue of fake news. These include:
- Formation of a joint task force which has already submitted its report to the Prime Minister.
- Reforms in the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016, to better tackle fake news.
- Registration of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to enhance monitoring of online activities.
Public Awareness Campaign
Mehdi emphasized the government’s efforts in reaching out to the public through an awareness campaign. This initiative aims to educate citizens about the risks and consequences of spreading misinformation, using all available media platforms.
“The steps taken by the government, such as blocking SIM cards and revising laws, are aimed at minimizing the harmful effects of fake news,” Mehdi said, assuring the public that the task force’s work would continue.
