According to the Chief Minister, this new measure aims to prevent the influx of illegal immigrants into Assam. He stated, “Submitting the NRC application receipt number will help ensure that only genuine citizens receive Aadhaar cards.” He also indicated that the state is concerned about the number of Aadhaar applications exceeding the population figures, suggesting the presence of “doubtful citizens” in the state.
Stricter Guidelines and New SOP
To implement these changes, a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be formulated and enforced by the state government. However, the new requirement will not apply to certain groups. For instance, the 9.55 lakh people whose biometrics were locked during the NRC process will still receive their Aadhaar cards. Similarly, residents of tea garden areas, who have faced difficulties such as a lack of adequate biometric machines, will also be exempt from this new rule.
The Assam government’s decision also includes a provision that new Aadhaar applicants will only be granted the card after obtaining a no-objection certificate from the concerned district commissioner. These certificates will be closely scrutinised to ensure their authenticity. “If the applicant has an NRC ARN, it becomes clear that they were in the state before 2014,” Sarma explained.
Districts Under Surveillance
The Chief Minister highlighted that four districts in Assam have reported more Aadhaar applications than their estimated populations. Barpeta leads with 103.74% of applications, followed by Dhubri at 103%, and Morigaon and Nagaon both at 101%. The high number of applications from these districts has raised suspicions about possible illegal residents.
Enhanced Border Security and Surveillance
Further measures have also been initiated to expedite the identification of illegal foreigners. Recently, two Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended and subsequently deported. Border surveillance has been intensified, with local government officials at the village or area level being activated to gather information about new and unfamiliar individuals in the state.
CM Sarma emphasised that if any suspect is found in possession of an Aadhaar card, PAN, Voter ID, or Passport, their biometric data will be recorded. This would ensure that they can be easily traced in the future if needed.
Broader Implications
While the new rules currently apply only to Assam, Sarma hinted that other states might soon follow suit. As Aadhaar cards play a crucial role in establishing an individual’s identity in India, the stricter guidelines could have far-reaching implications across the country.
This move by the Assam government underscores its commitment to addressing concerns over illegal immigration while ensuring that the Aadhaar system remains credible and secure.
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