The Ministry of Communications recently released a circular providing clarifications on the properties and usage of Aadhaar, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
The circular focuses on three key points regarding how an Aadhaar number and related documents can be used.
Key Clarifications on Aadhaar
Identity Verification:
An Aadhaar number can be used to establish the identity of the Aadhaar holder, but only through authentication or offline verification.
Not Proof of Citizenship or Domicile:
UIDAI clarified that an Aadhaar number or its authentication does not prove citizenship or domicile of the holder.
Not Proof of Date of Birth:
An Aadhaar number cannot be used as conclusive proof of date of birth.
It should not be relied upon to verify the holder’s age officially.
These clarifications aim to ensure correct usage of Aadhaar and prevent any misconceptions about the card’s legal and official status.
By keeping these points in mind, individuals and institutions can use Aadhaar responsibly for identity verification without assuming it provides proof of citizenship, residence, or age.
