The Federal Constitutional Court has raised serious concerns regarding the reliability of records maintained by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) while hearing a sensitive custody case involving a minor girl, Ayesha Tariq.
The case was heard by a two-member bench comprising Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice K.K. Agha. During proceedings, the court questioned whether official Nadra records could be considered fully reliable, noting that such documents might be subject to alteration or manipulation.
The petition was filed as a habeas corpus plea concerning the custody of Ayesha Tariq, who had converted from Christianity to Islam. Her parents argued that she was underage and presented Nadra documents to support their claim. However, the court expressed skepticism over the authenticity and conclusiveness of such records.
Justice Aamer Farooq observed that Nadra records cannot always be treated as final proof of age, highlighting concerns that parents sometimes understate their children’s ages in official documentation. The bench emphasized that such inconsistencies make it necessary to verify age through independent medical examination.
To resolve the matter, the court ordered an ossification test to determine the girl’s actual age. Until the results are available, the court directed that she be placed in Darul Aman, Lahore, instead of her current residence at a beauty parlour. The court also allowed her parents to meet her during this period.
During the hearing, Ayesha Tariq claimed that she was 20 years old and stated that her actual year of birth was 2007, contrary to the 2011 date recorded in official documents. She further told the court that she had converted to Islam two years ago and denied any intention of marriage.
The bench also raised concerns about her living conditions after she revealed that she was residing and working at a beauty parlour, where other girls were also reportedly being sheltered.
Justice K.K. Agha pointed out that the core issue appeared to revolve around possible coercion or pressure, particularly regarding religious conversion. The court stressed the importance of ensuring that any decision in the case is made with full regard to legal standards, personal safety, and fundamental rights.
The hearing has been adjourned until May 20, by which time the ossification test results are expected to provide clarity on the age dispute, a key factor in determining custody and legal responsibility in the case.
