In a major step toward women’s empowerment in Pakistan. NADRA has announced that, married women can now choose to keep their father’s name on their CNICs instead of replacing it with their husband’s name. This new rule gives women more control over their personal identity and official documents.
Before this change, most married women were required to update their CNIC to reflect their husband’s name. Many women found this rule unfair and restrictive. Now, with this progressive update, NADRA allows women to make their own decision about which name they want to appear on their CNIC. This is especially helpful for women who want to maintain the name they have used for education, jobs, or legal matters.
This move is part of NADRA’s larger effort to modernize Pakistan’s identity system and make it more inclusive. It shows that the government is listening to public concerns and responding in ways that respect personal freedom. The update is also in line with global practices where women have the choice to keep their maiden names after marriage.
By allowing this option, NADRA is removing a major hurdle faced by many women during legal procedures, passport applications, bank dealings, and inheritance cases. Now, women can avoid unnecessary paperwork and confusion just because their name changed after marriage.
NADRA’s decision has received praise from human rights groups, legal experts, and social activists. They believe this change will help women feel more confident and independent in managing their documents and making life decisions.
This change is already being implemented in new CNIC applications and renewals, and women across Pakistan can benefit from it. All they need to do is mention their preference when applying or renewing their ID.
This is a strong and positive message. that women have the right to choose how they are identified, and their voices matter in shaping public policies. With more such steps, Pakistan continues to move toward a fairer and more equal society.
