The Peshawar High Court has made a groundbreaking decision regarding the citizenship rights of Pakistani women married to Afghan nationals. The court ruled that these women can hold dual nationality despite possessing Afghan Citizens Card (ACC) or Proof of Registration (PoR). Additionally, children under 21 born to a Pakistani parent can also retain dual nationality until they come of age.
The court also deemed illegal the actions of blocking CNICs of Pakistani women and denying B Form to individuals under 21 solely based on their ACC and PoR records. The detailed verdict authored by Justice Wiqar Ahmad highlighted violations of sections 14, 14A, and 16 of the Citizenship Act.
Furthermore, the bench declared that Pakistani citizens married to Afghan nationals are entitled to a Pakistan Origin Card and can apply for citizenship through naturalization. The court emphasized the importance of providing a swift mechanism for addressing the citizenship status of individuals holding ACC or PoR cards.
This significant ruling sets a precedent for addressing citizenship issues and ensuring the rights of individuals with dual nationality.