ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said on Wednesday that strict action will be taken against those who are defaming the country's image.

Rashid was addressing a ceremony at Passport Office when he said we are fully focusing on National Action Plan and stern action will be taken against those who are defaming the country internationally.

He also spoke on a host of issues including the authorities' suggestion that the name of former Gilgit Baltistan Chief Judge Rana Shamim be added on Exit Control List.

Rashid also spoke about PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif and how he will not come to Pakistan and if he desires to do so he will have to submit his documents "within 24 hours."

If he is interested to return to Pakistan then we can deliver the documents to his house, he added.

The minister has appealed to the opposition parties to shift the schedule of long march from March 23 to March 30 as the roads have to be closed for Pakistan Day parade.

Passport services

Rashid said that "Asia's first ever" e-passport service will start in Pakistan beginning next year.

The initiatives included revamping online passport facility, fast track delivery service at zonal offices, upgradation of website of Director General of Immigration and Passports and inauguration of its official logo.

He said this online facility will enable people to get their passports at home without traveling and waiting in queues at passport offices.

He said passport delivery service has been revamped and now one can get it within twenty four hours.

The Interior Minister said online facility is also being given for renunciation of citizenship and getting emergency travel documents.

He said that the online passport facility will be extended to 191 countries.

He said strict action will be taken against those Pakistanis having dual passports.