Registration and appointments of minorities: 'Nadra practices no discrimination'

National Database and Registration Authority, (Nadra) has been strictly following government policy that minorities should not be discriminated on the basis of religion or sect whether it would be the act of provision of registration services or of employment at Nadra, said Tariq Malik, Deputy Chairman Nadra here on Tuesday.
Nadra is the only organisation in the region, which has registered minorities in national database featured with multi-biometrics technology, thus empowering them with an identity, Tariq Malik said while talking to delegation of Pakistan Sikh Council, which called on him at Nadra Headquarters to discuss various matters pertaining to registration.
Sardar Ramesh Singh Chairman of Pakistan Sikh Council (PSC) heading the five member delegation appreciated Nadra services and facilitation for the minorities and Tariq Malik's earnest efforts to ensure co-operation with Gurdwara for the registration of their marriages. Malik informed the delegation that Nadra has registered total 5,852 Sikhs so far including 3,105 male and 2,747 females and ensured their rights as genuine citizens of Pakistan. He also urged the community members turning from 17 to 18 years to acquire CNIC, which is mandatory to caste vote in the next elections.
Deputy Chairman while presiding over the meeting sorted out their registration-related issues. Tariq Malik sought the facilitation and help from PSC (Pakistan Sikh Council) not only in registering the genuine Sikh citizens of Pakistan but also identifying illegal aliens within our community. He stressed that under the prevailing security situation, it is important that evidence of identity must be verified. The issue of marriage registration was highlighted during the meeting whereby it was discussed that Nadra would consider "Annand Karraj" - marriage certificate issued by Gurdwara for verifying the Sikhs marriages.
Nadra would verify such certificate from the respective Gurdwara and PSC. PSC will confirm such record to be maintained by Gurdwara for verification at any stage by Nadra. Chairman PSC praised Nadra's efficient and transparent working throughout Pakistan and asked for their representation in Nadra. Deputy Chairman reiterated Nadra policy and adherence to minorities' quota on merit. Deputy Chairman assured the delegation that Nadra does not exercise any discrimination on the basis of religion and sect and stresses equal rights of all citizens. PSC and Nadra both agreed to extend their support in future to facilitate Sikh community for the registration.