Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Interior and Narcotics Control convened a meeting in Islamabad today, overseen by Chairman Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman. The gathering, attended by several senators and the Minister of State for Interior and Narcotics Control, focused on issues such as the misuse of Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs), the status of Capital Development Authority (CDA) projects, and the appointment of Senator Ahmed Khan to the Real Estate Regulatory Authority.
The committee was briefed on the delays in issuing a notification for Senator Ahmed Khan’s appointment, with the committee chair seeking a resolution timeline. The Minister of State assured that the matter would be addressed before the next meeting.
A significant portion of the meeting centered on CNIC reforms. NADRA officials explained the ten-year renewal requirement, attributing it to card material lifespan, biometric verification, and demographic shifts. Concerns were also raised about unrelated individuals appearing in genuine CNIC holders’ family trees, prompting suggestions for a forthcoming mobile verification app.
The committee was informed of 1,296 fraudulent Pakistani passports held by Afghan nationals discovered by the Saudi government. NADRA was tasked with reporting actions against involved employees in the next meeting.
Updates on Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) projects were provided, highlighting a revised budget allocation of Rs. 9,780 million for 22 projects in 2024-25. Delays in ICT projects and inflation-induced cost increases were addressed, with Senator Saifullah Abro urging timely fund utilization to prevent escalations.
The construction delay of 10th Avenue in Islamabad was discussed, with recommendations to prioritize fund use and block unused allocations. Additionally, the Ministry of Interior’s 2018 ban on tinted vehicle glass permits was reviewed, with calls for a clear policy for taxpayers and industrialists.
The committee also examined the operation of restaurants and guest houses in residential areas, noting that 275 guest houses continue operation under court orders despite CDA notices. Concerns over sheesha cafés and rising drug use among students prompted directives for stringent action and random inspections.
Lastly, fire prevention measures for Margalla Hills were discussed, emphasizing community involvement to mitigate risks during the upcoming summer season.