Infotainment
Lahore Court Allows Women to Retain Father’s Name on CNIC
Lahore High Court has directed the immigration and passport department to amend its rules within three months to allow women to retain their father’s name on their computerized national identity card (CNIC) and passport, irrespective of their marital status.
The directive came in response to a petition filed by Mehr Bano Langrial, who sought a declaration affirming the right of married women to maintain their father’s name on their identity documents.
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Justice Asim Hafeez issued the order, emphasizing the importance of ensuring equal rights for women in matters of identification.
During the proceedings, Additional Attorney General Mirza Nasar Ahmad informed the court that the federal government had no objections to the petitioner’s request.
Immigration and Passport Additional Director Attaur Rehman highlighted that the consultative process for amending the rules is underway, acknowledging the necessity of policy and rule changes to accommodate women’s preferences regarding their names on passports.
Rehman further explained that while the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) allows married women to choose to retain their father’s name on their CNICs, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passport mandates the inclusion of husbands’ names on passports, creating inconsistencies in documentation.
The court’s decision reflects a significant step towards gender inclusivity and empowerment, recognizing the autonomy of women to determine their identities independently of marital status.
By allowing women to retain their father’s name on official documents, the ruling upholds their right to self-identification and eliminates unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
While acknowledging the complexities involved in updating passport details and coordinating with foreign authorities, the court’s order underscores the urgency of ensuring swift implementation of the amended rules to facilitate seamless access to passports for women.
As Pakistan moves towards greater gender equality and social justice, the Lahore High Court’s ruling sets a precedent for progressive legal reforms aimed at safeguarding women’s rights and promoting inclusivity in all spheres of society.
