The Assam Cabinet has approved new restrictions on the issuance of Aadhaar cards to individuals aged 18 and above, according to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Speaking at a press conference following a Cabinet meeting on Saturday, Sarma said that, under the new arrangement, Aadhaar cards will generally not be issued to individuals aged 18 and above without additional scrutiny. In exceptional cases, the District Commissioner will be required to submit a proposal to the state government seeking permission for issuance. The government will then assess the eligibility of the applicant before granting approval.
The Chief Minister stated that the measure is intended to strengthen identity verification procedures and prevent illegal immigrants from obtaining Aadhaar cards.
Referring to Aadhaar enrolment figures in the state, Sarma said that issuance has reached saturation levels in several districts. He noted that in some districts, Aadhaar coverage has reportedly exceeded 100 percent of the estimated population, prompting the government to review the identity verification process for new applicants.
The Chief Minister said that Aadhaar card issuance will continue for members of the tea garden community and Scheduled Tribe populations, as many eligible individuals in these groups have yet to receive the document.
However, he added that the revised policy is expected to come into full effect from April 1, 2027. From that date, individuals aged 18 and above from these categories will also be subject to the same restrictions and verification procedures.
Meanwhile, Aadhaar enrolment for individuals below the age of 18 will continue as per existing norms.
Sarma reiterated that the Assam government has adopted a strict approach toward Aadhaar issuance and stated that obtaining the document in the state involves multiple verification measures.
The Chief Minister also recalled that the state government had earlier indicated plans to introduce stricter Aadhaar issuance regulations for adults as part of broader efforts to strengthen identity verification and address concerns related to illegal immigration.
