Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in Pakistan is investigating a major data leak at the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). This breach has raised serious concerns about national security. Committee Chairman Noor Alam Khan recently led a meeting where officials from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) briefed the committee on the ongoing probe.
During the meeting, Khan expressed grave alarm. He stated that the data leak could potentially compromise the personal information of every Pakistani citizen. However, the investigation has encountered resistance from NADRA officials. There are reports that a PAC officer attempting to access leaked data faced obstruction from higher authorities within NADRA.
Highlighting the threat to national integrity, Khan has appealed to Pakistan’s Chief Justice for unimpeded access to investigate the leak. He stressed the importance of restoring public trust in the justice system, which currently ranks 128th globally. Khan believes addressing issues like the NADRA breach and alleged corruption within NADRA Technologies Limited (NTL) is crucial to achieving this goal.
Further complicating matters, the Islamabad High Court reportedly denied a PAC request for an audit report related to the case. Khan urged the court to cooperate, acknowledging its crucial role in the legal system.
In a separate investigation, the PAC tackled a case involving the issuance of fake arms licenses through forged letters using the names of legislators (MNAs). Four individuals have been arrested for this fraud, which has led to significant delays in processing genuine license applications.
To expedite investigations, the PAC plans to write to the Army Chief and Defense Secretary, requesting their assistance. Additionally, the committee proposes to inform the Director-General of the FIA about the audit process and request their presence during future meetings.
