Reports that NADRA – which was supposed to be a safe house for a secure database of all citizens of Pakistan – has become a source for issuing fake identification documents are very disturbing. The working of NADRA impacts directly on our national security. Every sovereign nation compiles a database of their nationals to prevent aliens and terrorists from assuming fake identities for their ulterior motives. Why else, other than for fulfilment of illegitimate purposes, would somebody resort to having a fake identification, whether it be a national identity card or a passport?
Billions have been invested in this project. To run efficiently, it required the services of professionally qualified IT and computer science specialists, instead of being reduced to yet another institution to be dedicated to the welfare of cronies or retired officers of our uniformed services. Those involved in this racket have compromised not only our national security, but the international credibility of our passports and national identity cards. Why were billions invested in making intelligent machine passports and NIC, if those entrusted with the task were not to be properly scrutinised, or were not qualified.
The fact that this lapse has occurred and was not exposed by the security within the system shows that things are seriously wrong within NADRA and our intelligence services such as FIA. Mere denials by officials will not serve any purpose. Things were so wrong that nothing happened till the matter was reported in the international media. Mere suspension of those involved in this corruption will be nothing but eyewash and only serve to encourage others to indulge in anti-state activity. A severe punishment is necessary to serve as deterrence.
MALIK TARIQ ALI
Lahore
