Key facts
- Assam has banned new Aadhaar card enrollments for individuals aged 18 and above.
- The policy aims to prevent illegal immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh, from obtaining Aadhaar.
- Exemptions are granted to Divyang, Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Tea Garden communities until March 31, 2027.
- District commissioners must seek state government approval for exceptional cases.
- Individuals under 18 years of age are not subject to the new restriction.
The Assam government has implemented a new policy restricting the issuance of Aadhaar cards to individuals aged 18 and above, a move aimed at curbing infiltration and preventing illegal immigrants from obtaining the identity document. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that while the general adult population will no longer be able to enroll for new Aadhaar cards, specific exemptions are in place.
Members of the Divyang, Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Tea Garden communities will continue to be eligible for Aadhaar enrollment until March 31, 2027. For any other exceptional cases, district commissioners will need to obtain special permission from the state government. The restriction does not apply to individuals below the age of 18.
Officials cited concerns that Aadhaar enrollment levels in some districts have exceeded population estimates, suggesting potential duplication or fraudulent entries. The government views this policy as a crucial step in strengthening identity verification processes and addressing long-standing concerns over undocumented migration, particularly from Bangladesh.
Aadhaar, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), is a widely used biometric identity system integrated into India's welfare and administrative systems, including direct benefit transfers, banking KYC, and mobile SIM issuance. While not legally proof of citizenship, its widespread use makes access to it critical for many services. Critics, however, have raised concerns about potential exclusion of genuine citizens, particularly from economically weaker sections, who might face administrative barriers in accessing essential services without Aadhaar.