Islamabad: A new bill introduced in Pakistan's National Assembly aims to simplify the renewal process for National Identity Cards (NICs) for citizens over the age of 60 by removing stringent documentation requirements. The proposed legislation seeks to address issues faced by senior citizens who cannot provide proof of residence before 1978 or evidence of parental citizenship.

According to Free and Fair Election Network, the National Database and Registration Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was introduced by Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians MNA Dr. Sharmila Farooqui. The bill proposes amendments to Section 10 of the NADRA Ordinance, 2000, to prevent the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) from denying NIC renewals to elderly citizens based solely on the lack of specific historical documentation. Instead, applicants would need to submit an affidavit confirming their continuous residence in Pakistan, supported by the certification of two Pakistani citizens with valid NICs.

The bill has been referred to the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior and Narcotics Control for further review. Under Rule 235 of the National Assembly Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business, 2007, the committee is expected to report back within 30 days. The bill's Statement of Objects and Reasons highlights the difficulties faced by many elderly citizens in providing documentation due to historical and administrative challenges, aiming to ensure they are not unfairly deprived of their identity cards.