The Assam government has taken a sensational decision. To prevent illegal immigration into the state, the Assam Cabinet has decided that Aadhaar cards will no longer be issued to individuals aged 18 and above. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this personally, making it clear that the strict decision was taken with the intent of ensuring that no illegal immigrants coming from Bangladesh can obtain Aadhaar cards in the state. However, he added that in rare exceptional cases where someone must be issued an Aadhaar card, the concerned District Collector would need to send a special proposal to the state government and obtain prior approval.
Restrictions on Aadhaar Issuance
CM Sarma noted that the process of issuing Aadhaar cards in the state has already been nearly completed for most residents. He pointed out that in some districts, Aadhaar cards have been issued to more people than the actual population — exceeding 100% — and said it is essential to find out exactly who these additional cardholders are. He stated that this is precisely why restrictions are being placed on issuing Aadhaar cards to adults. He also recalled his warning from last year that the rules for issuing Aadhaar to adults would be made stricter, and that obtaining an Aadhaar card in Assam would no longer be easy.
However, certain sections of the population have been granted a temporary exemption from this rule. Tea garden workers, tribal communities, Dalits, and persons with disabilities will continue to receive Aadhaar cards, as many among them are yet to be covered. Children below 18 years of age will also continue to be issued Aadhaar cards. However, the CM made it clear that from April 1, 2027, the ban will apply comprehensively to everyone — and that after that date, even those belonging to the exempted categories will not be able to obtain a new Aadhaar card once they cross 18 years of age.