LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has taken notice of the sudden cancellation of Arshad Khan, famously known as ‘Chaiwala’, national identity card (CNIC) and passport. Justice Jawad Hassan issued a notice to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and the immigration department, asking them to respond by April 17.
However, his legal team has now challenged the blocking of his documents, calling it illegal and damaging to his reputation and future. Arshad’s lawyer, Barrister Umer Ijaz Gilani, argued that NADRA’s demand for proof of residency before 1978 was unfair. He said Arshad Khan and his family already have a recorded history of Pakistani citizenship.
The court heard that the decision was possibly influenced by a rumour aired on a television channel that questioned his nationality. Arshad’s legal counsel argued that this false claim has led to a serious violation of his rights.
Justice Jawad Hassan instructed NADRA and the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports to provide a full explanation and submit a detailed report before the next hearing. He also ruled that no action should be taken against Arshad Khan until the case is decided.
In court, it was emphasized that blocking someone’s CNIC or passport without due process is against the law. The lawyer cited articles of the Constitution, including the right to earn, live with dignity, and be treated fairly under the law.
Government lawyers, however, claimed that Arshad Khan failed to provide enough documents to confirm his nationality, and that the action was lawful.
The court also addressed a related case involving a petitioner born in Pakistan to Afghan refugee parents. The judge ordered that NADRA must hear that case within a month and no pressure should be applied during the process.
Who is Arshad Khan (Chaiwala)?
Arshad Khan, also known as Chaiwala became a viral sensation in 2016 after a photo of him serving tea in Islamabad caught global attention. Since then, he has built a career as a model and entrepreneur. His sudden rise from a tea vendor to a global figure inspired many Pakistanis.
