To stop illegal immigrants from getting Aadhaar cards using fake documents, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has decided to make the Aadhaar enrolment process stricter.
Going forward, UIDAI will use online databases of passports, ration cards, birth certificates, and matriculation certificates to verify documents for Aadhaar enrolment or updates, especially for adults.
An official has confirmed that it will now be much harder for any illegal immigrant to obtain Aadhaar due to these new, tougher procedures.
Aadhaar Enrolment for Adults Will Be Stricter
While Aadhaar is already being issued to newborns, the government now plans to introduce strict rules for new adult registrations.
This comes after growing concerns that illegal immigrants were using fake documents to get Aadhaar cards and use them for various services.
From now on, Aadhaar enrolment or updates for adults will only be done after checking the person’s documents against verified online databases.
This is part of UIDAI’s effort to keep the Aadhaar system secure and trustworthy.
Aadhaar Is Not a Proof of Citizenship
This move comes at a time when voter list updates are taking place in Bihar, ahead of the assembly elections.
The issue has sparked a political debate, with the opposition approaching the Supreme Court.
During the hearing, the Election Commission clarified that the Aadhaar card is not a proof of citizenship, but only a form of identity.
Such issues have occurred in the past as well, which has led UIDAI to now act more strictly.
Aadhaar Issued Only After State-Level Verification
Illegal migrants often try to get Aadhaar using forged documents. However, Aadhaar is issued only after a strict verification process, which is handled through state government portals.
The government’s goal is to make sure that only genuine residents get the Aadhaar number.
Aadhaar Numbers Issued So Far
In the last 15 years, more than 140 crore Aadhaar numbers have been issued across the country.
While Section 9 of the Aadhaar Act clearly mentions that Aadhaar is not proof of citizenship or residence, the new rules aim to further ensure that only Indian citizens can receive the unique identity number.
