In a significant policy shift, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra have declared that the Aadhaar card is not valid for birth certificate purposes. This means residents can no longer use their Aadhaar cards as proof of birth in these states. The decision, formalized through orders issued by the Planning Department in Uttar Pradesh and the State Revenue Department in Maharashtra, aims to curb the misuse of identity documents.
Aadhaar Card: Identity Proof, Not Proof of Birth
The Uttar Pradesh Planning Department has explicitly stated that Aadhaar card is not valid for birth certificate or proof of date of birth. Amit Singh Bansal, Special Secretary of the Planning Department, emphasized that since no birth certificate is attached to the Aadhaar card, it cannot serve as a birth certificate replacement. This directive has been communicated to all departments within the state.
Maharashtra Cancels Aadhaar-Based Birth Certificates
Maharashtra’s State Revenue Department has taken a stricter stance, announcing the cancellation of all birth certificates issued solely based on Aadhaar cards after the August 2023 amendment. The government stated that the Aadhaar card is not valid for birth certificate when creating delayed birth certificates in the state. This measure is designed to combat the creation and usage of fraudulent birth and death certificates for illegal activities.
Crackdown on Suspicious Certificates
Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has directed the cancellation of all suspicious certificates issued using Aadhaar cards. Additionally, officials responsible for issuing these certificates face potential disciplinary action. The Revenue Department has introduced a comprehensive 16-point verification guideline for Tehsildars, Sub-Divisional Officers, District Commissioners, and Divisional Commissioners to ensure compliance and prevent future misuse.
Potential Link to Special Intensive Revision (SIR)
While not explicitly confirmed, the timing of these orders raises questions about their potential connection to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has faced scrutiny regarding the role of Aadhaar cards in proving citizenship during the SIR exercise. By restricting the use of Aadhaar cards to identity verification only, the state governments appear to be aligning with a cautious approach advocated by the Supreme Court.
Disclaimer: This article provides information regarding the use of Aadhaar cards as proof of birth based on recent policy changes. For specific cases or concerns, please consult the official websites of the Uttar Pradesh Planning Department and the Maharashtra State Revenue Department or contact relevant government authorities.
Image Credit: Financial Express
