Assam Government Considers Stricter Aadhaar Card Rules to Curb Illegal Immigration
Stricter Aadhaar Regulations Proposed
On Friday, Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, announced that the state government is contemplating tightening the regulations for issuing Aadhaar cards to adults as part of efforts to control illegal immigration from Bangladesh.
Sarma stated that implementing stricter Aadhaar issuance rules would enhance the state's ability to identify and deport illegal foreigners. During a press conference following a cabinet meeting, he mentioned, "Today, we discussed a proposal that would require comprehensive verification before issuing Aadhaar cards to adults. The cabinet will soon make a decision regarding this matter."
He noted that nearly all adults in Assam possess Aadhaar cards. He added, "If an adult applies for an Aadhaar card, we will conduct thorough investigations. Once the new rules are in effect, only the district commissioner will have the authority to issue Aadhaar cards."
The Chief Minister emphasized, "This will ensure that no illegal immigrant can obtain an Aadhaar card, allowing us to easily identify and deport them back to their country." He also mentioned that eligible adult citizens who have not yet obtained their Aadhaar cards will be given the opportunity to apply.
The deputy commissioner will be authorized to oversee this process. Furthermore, the Chief Minister indicated that the procedure for obtaining birth certificates will also be made stricter, with the district magistrate appointed as the authority to issue such certificates.
He clarified that while Aadhaar cards are not proof of citizenship, they are widely used for various official purposes, including registering on voter lists, opening bank accounts, and obtaining gas connections.
He stated, "If we can block Aadhaar cards, we can also prevent the issuance of other documents. We have no issue with foreigners legally residing here for extended periods and obtaining Aadhaar cards. Our concern lies with illegal foreigners."
He added that tightening the rules would assist in deportation efforts. The Chief Minister revealed, "As part of our ongoing efforts to identify and repatriate illegal immigrants, we deported 20 more Bangladeshis last night. The decision to enforce stricter Aadhaar issuance rules will support our initiatives in this direction."
Additionally, the cabinet approved amendments to the regulations governing the autonomous councils of the Moran and Matak communities, allowing only members of these communities to vote in council elections.