THIS is with reference to the letter ‘Keep your Nadra data updated’ (Feb 16). The fact of the matter is that each family member in each family-tree is connected on the basis of identity number. The National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) updates family linkages through explicit consent — biometric verification — of the individual updating the family tree.

Nadra is not authorised to automatically update the family linkage in lieu of other family members without their consent due to legal and security implications. Besides, it is also the sole responsibility and right of every citizen to protect his/her personal and family data from any intruder. These digital security measures and validation checks help to block the intrusion of non-nationals/aliens as well as unknowns in a Pakistani citizen’s family.

Nadra blocks hundreds of intrusion-in-family-tree attempts and identity frauds on a daily basis. Recently, it verified more than 55 million families through ‘Qaumi Tasdeeq-o-Tajdeed Campaign’ that was digitally launched nationwide.

Further, through an Act of parliament, Nadra has been tasked with processing of documents, like Succession Certificate, Letter of Administration, Decline Certificate, etc. The charges for the process are clearly defined in Schedule IV (rule 9) 5 of the Statutory Instrument. Nadra has no role in defining, increasing or reducing the government fee at all. However, in order to facilitate the general public, the current Nadra administration has written a letter to the federal government, advising it to revise the fee against certain documents.

Nadra spokesperson
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, March 14th, 2023