Assam Imposes Strict Aadhaar Verification Amid Concerns of Illegal Issuance

Assam will implement a stringent verification procedure for Aadhaar card applicants from October 1, citing concerns over the issuance of cards exceeding the projected population. Suspected foreigners obtaining Aadhaar cards have prompted this move. A new Standard Operating Procedure will require NRC application numbers for Aadhaar applications. The Assam Police will intensify efforts to detect illegal immigrants.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Saturday that from October 1, individuals seeking Aadhaar cards in the state will undergo a stringent verification process. Addressing a press conference at Lok Sewa Bhawan in Guwahati, Sarma highlighted incidents where more than 100 percent of Aadhaar cards were issued in multiple districts compared to the projected population.

"Data indicates that 103.74 percent of Aadhaar cards were issued in Barpeta district, 103.48 percent in Dhubri district, 101.74 percent in Morigaon district, and 100.86 percent in Nagaon district against their projected populations. From October 1, excluding those in tea gardens, adults in other districts will undergo a stringent verification process to obtain Aadhaar cards," stated CM Sarma. This move raises concerns that suspected foreigners may have unlawfully acquired Aadhaar cards.

Sarma further mentioned that the Assam government will release a Standard Operating Procedure within the next 10 days. Applicants will need to submit their NRC application receipt number along with their Aadhaar application. "If you don't apply for NRC, you won't get an Aadhaar card under the new system," asserted CM Sarma.

The new verification process will not affect the 9.55 lakh individuals previously excluded from obtaining Aadhaar cards. Since the NRC update process commenced in 2014, the identification of foreign nationals has stagnated, and efforts will now be intensified.

The Assam government issued a memorandum on Saturday emphasizing the increased efforts to detect illegal immigrants across Assam's international borders. "The Inspector General of Police (Law & Order), Assam, will provide detailed instructions to district police units for requisite support and security. All Assam Police Border Organization wings are directed to prioritize these tasks and submit monthly progress and action reports," stated the memorandum.

(With inputs from agencies.)