In a groundbreaking move towards inclusion and accessibility, the federal government of Pakistan has approved amendments to the National Identity Card Act of 2002, bringing a positive transformation in the issuance of special lifetime CNICs for individuals with disabilities and organ donors.
This decision reflects a progressive step in recognizing and facilitating these individuals in various social services, healthcare programs, and public welfare initiatives.
Key Highlights of the New Amendments
🔹 Lifetime Identity Cards for Persons with Disabilities
Under the new law, persons with disabilities will receive a distinctive CNIC featuring a wheelchair logo, making their identification easier across various sectors. This move aims to ensure that they can access essential services without unnecessary hurdles.
🔹 Recognition for Disabled Children
Children with disabilities will also benefit from this change, as their ID cards will carry the same wheelchair symbol whether they are issued temporary or formal CNICs.
🔹 Special CNICs for Organ Donors
In another landmark step, Pakistan has recognized organ donors with a dedicated symbol on their CNICs. Citizens who have voluntarily registered as organ donors with relevant organizations will now receive a special lifetime identification card displaying both the wheelchair logo and the organ donor symbol.
🔹 Dual-Status CNICs
For individuals who are both disabled and registered organ donors, the CNIC will display both symbols, ensuring enhanced recognition and accessibility across public and private institutions.
Implementation and Impact
These amendments, introduced under Section 44 of the NADRA Ordinance, 2000, will be officially implemented after their publication in the Gazette of Pakistan. NADRA, in collaboration with federal and provincial authorities, will issue these special CNICs to all eligible individuals, ensuring streamlined documentation and enhanced accessibility to government and private sector benefits.
The introduction of these special lifetime ID cards is a progressive milestone, ensuring that persons with disabilities and organ donors receive the recognition and support they deserve. With this move, the government aims to empower and uplift these communities, offering them a dignified and secure place in society.