Polio Vaccination to Become Mandatory for CNICs and Passports in Pakistan!

In a significant step toward eradicating polio in Pakistan, the government is considering making polio vaccinations a mandatory requirement for issuing national identity cards, B forms, and passports. This proposal was discussed in a recent meeting of the Parliamentary Caucus for Children’s Rights, where members expressed grave concern over the persistence of polio cases in the country.

Dr. Malik Mukhtar, the Prime Minister’s Coordinator for National Health Services, highlighted the critical challenges in combating polio. He revealed that nine polio cases had been reported from a single union council in Dera Ismail Khan, underscoring the urgent need for more robust measures to eliminate the disease. Despite decades of efforts, polio continues to pose a serious threat, making it imperative for the government to take stringent steps.

Dr. Nikhat Shakeel, the convener of the Parliamentary Caucus for Children’s Rights, described the rising number of polio cases as a national emergency. She acknowledged the tireless efforts of polio workers, many of whom have risked or even lost their lives while trying to ensure children are vaccinated. Despite these sacrifices, the goal of a polio-free Pakistan remains elusive, highlighting the need for a more collaborative approach.

The meeting also emphasized the critical role of local leaders and scholars in promoting the polio vaccination drive. PTI’s Ali Muhammad Khan pointed out that involving community leaders can greatly enhance the campaign’s success by addressing cultural and religious concerns. JUI’s Shahida Rehmani shared an inspiring example of Maulana Fazlur Rehman personally visiting homes in Lucky Marwat to vaccinate children during an outbreak. Such efforts demonstrate the potential impact of community involvement in achieving the national goal of eradicating polio.

Making polio vaccinations mandatory for key documents like CNICs and passports is seen as a decisive move to ensure greater compliance. By tying vaccinations to essential services, the government aims to create a strong incentive for parents to protect their children against this debilitating disease. This policy, if implemented, could mark a turning point in Pakistan’s fight against polio, bringing the country closer to a future free of this preventable disease.