Islamabad: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has taken notice of the concerns regarding the inclusion of a married woman’s father’s or husband’s name on her passport. This issue was highlighted in the “Jeonio Zack” segment of the Geo Pakistan program, prompting Minister Naqvi to form a dedicated committee to address and resolve the matter.
The newly formed committee, chaired by Interior Secretary Khurram Ali, has been tasked with evaluating all aspects of the issue and providing recommendations that prioritize the convenience and ease of married women. Minister Naqvi emphasized the need for a practical solution that aligns with existing rules and regulations, expressing his appreciation for Geo Pakistan’s role in bringing the issue to light. He assured that every effort is being made to resolve the matter as swiftly as possible.
During the program, DG Passport Mustafa Jamal provided further insights into the current legal requirements and operational challenges. He explained that according to Pakistani law, the husband’s name must be included on the passport of a married woman. This requirement is based on the data maintained by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), which is used locally within Pakistan. He highlighted the distinction between local records and the international use of passports, indicating that the inclusion of such information is a standardized practice within the country.
Mustafa Jamal also addressed practical concerns regarding passport issuance and processing. He mentioned that the government is working on modifying the passport format to include a section for the ex-husband’s name, catering to situations of divorce or separation. Jamal acknowledged the issues faced in passport preparation due to machinery limitations but reassured that those who applied for normal passports have already received them by March 28.
To manage the high demand, Jamal stated that the passport office has been operating round-the-clock, seven days a week. With a daily processing capacity of 75,000 passports and a printing capacity of 25,000, efforts are being made to clear the backlog promptly. He emphasized that these measures are part of the government’s commitment to streamline passport services and address public concerns efficiently.
The federal government, under the direction of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, is actively working to resolve the issue of including a married woman’s father’s or husband’s name on her passport. A dedicated committee is evaluating potential solutions to ensure that the process is convenient and respects the legal framework. The government’s proactive approach, combined with operational improvements in passport processing, aims to address and resolve these concerns effectively.
