Assam Tightens Aadhaar Regulations to Curb Illegal Immigration

Guwahati, Jun 27 (PTI) The Assam government is considering implementing stricter rules for the issuance of Aadhaar cards to adults as part of its strategy to curb illegal immigration from Bangladesh. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this initiative on Friday. Tightening these regulations is expected to bolster the state’s efforts in identifying and deporting illegal foreigners, Sarma noted.

"Today, we discussed a proposal where Aadhaar cards for adults will be issued only after thorough verification. The Cabinet will make a decision on this matter soon," he stated during a press conference following a Cabinet meeting.

Highlighting that almost 100 per cent of adults in Assam already possess Aadhaar cards, Sarma mentioned, "If any adult applies for an Aadhaar card, we will conduct a thorough check. The approval for issuance, under the prospective rules, will only come from the District Commissioner." "This step will ensure that no illegal immigrant can obtain an Aadhaar card, facilitating easier tracking and deportation," he emphasized.

Sarma also stressed that stricter rules would enhance deportation efforts. "Last night we deported 20 more Bangladeshis as part of our continuous efforts to identify and repatriate illegal infiltrators. Tightening Aadhaar issuance regulations will support our efforts in this regard," he added.

In the Cabinet meeting, several decisions were made, including the approval for allotment of land under ‘Basundhara 3.0’ to temples, ‘namghars’ (Vaishnavite places of worship), clubs, educational institutions, and socio-cultural organizations. The council of ministers also approved the reservation of zilla parishad president and vice-president seats for women, and people from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes via a lottery system.

The Cabinet also consented to amend the existing provisions of autonomous councils for the Moran and Matak communities, restricting voting in council elections to the members of these communities.

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