Assam restricts Aadhaar issuance for adults to curb illegal immigration

The Assam government has introduced new policies aimed at curbing illegal immigration and managing population dynamics within the state. A significant decision by the Assam Cabinet is to cease the issuance of Aadhaar cards to individuals aged 18 and above. This measure is intended to prevent illegal immigrants from obtaining the identification document. However, exceptions to this rule will be granted to members of tea garden communities and Scheduled Tribes, who will continue to be eligible for Aadhaar cards until April 1, 2027. Individuals under the age of 18 are not affected by this new restriction.

In parallel, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has put forth a proposal for enhanced citizenship scrutiny along the state's international border. He suggested to a High-powered Demography Mission that annual National Register of Citizens (NRC) checks be implemented for residents in these border areas. The mission, which is chaired by Justice Prakash Prabhakar Navlekar, is expected to submit its report within a year. Chief Minister Sarma also noted the substantial central government assistance that is contributing to the development and infrastructure projects in Assam.

Furthering its urban planning initiatives, the Assam government has also approved the establishment of the Guwahati Satellite Cities Development Authority (GSCDA). This new authority will be responsible for the planning, financing, and development of satellite cities in and around Guwahati. The objective behind this initiative is to facilitate a more organized and sustainable urban expansion and growth for the region, addressing the increasing population and development needs.

The government's actions reflect a multi-pronged approach to governance, addressing issues ranging from national security and immigration control to urban development and population management.