Wed Apr 09 15:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Chaiwala’s Blocked CNIC and Passport Spark Legal Battle
**Lahore, Pakistan –** The Lahore High Court (LHC) has summoned senior officials from NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) and the Pakistani emigration department to appear on April 17th. The summons follows a petition filed by Arshad Khan, widely known as “Chaiwala,” whose CNIC and passport have been blocked.
Khan, who rose to international fame after a photograph of him selling tea went viral, alleges that the blockage is based on false rumors spread by a news channel. His lawyer, Umer Ijaz Gilani, argues this action violates Khan’s fundamental rights, including his right to livelihood and due process, citing several articles of the Pakistani Constitution. Gilani contends that NADRA’s demand for pre-1978 residency proof is a malicious attempt to harm his client’s career and reputation.
The government’s legal representative countered that Khan failed to provide sufficient proof of Pakistani nationality, justifying the blockage. The LHC has ordered both parties to submit comprehensive reports outlining their positions before the April 17th hearing. The court will then determine whether the blocking of Khan’s identification documents was justified.
First Piper 