NADRA has suspended the Pakistani citizenship of the famous tea seller Arshad Khan, who has challenged the decision in the Lahore High Court. The court has issued notices to the federal government and other defendants for challenging NADRA’s decision.
According to details, Arshad Khan filed a petition through Barrister Umar Ejaz Gilani, stating that the decisions of NADRA and the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports are illegal and unconstitutional. Arshad Khan argued that his fame grew after a viral picture of him selling tea, and now NADRA’s actions have put his future at risk.
He further stated that NADRA’s demand for proof of residence before 1978 is based on malice and lacks legal justification. The petitioner’s lawyer cited Articles 4, 9, 14, and 18 of the Constitution, referring to violations of Arshad Khan’s rights.
During the hearing, previous decisions of the Sindh High Court, Islamabad High Court, and Lahore High Court were cited, which stated that blocking identity documents without due process is illegal. NADRA officials raised questions about the petitioner’s failure to present documents proving his citizenship.
The court has directed NADRA and the Directorate of Immigration and Passports officers to appear with relevant records on April 17 and has also prohibited any negative action against Arshad Khan.
