In a significant policy shift, the Delhi Police will no longer accept Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, or ration cards as valid proof of Indian citizenship when verifying individuals suspected to be illegal foreign nationals. The move comes in the wake of a verification drive that revealed several undocumented migrants, particularly from Bangladesh and the Rohingya community, had obtained these documents to falsely establish Indian identity.
Officials confirmed that only Voter ID cards and Indian passports will now be considered valid proof of citizenship under the new guidelines issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
“During recent drives, we found that many illegal immigrants were in possession of Aadhaar and PAN cards, which do not establish nationality,” a senior Delhi Police officer stated. “As a result, our verification protocol has been revised.”
Since October 2024, Delhi Police have intensified checks in several areas, detaining individuals suspected of illegal stay. Many of those detained had procured government-issued documents, often through fraudulent means, which complicated the identification process. The new directive aims to close that loophole.
While Aadhaar, PAN, and ration cards serve vital roles in availing welfare benefits and financial services, the government clarified that these are not conclusive evidence of Indian citizenship. Instead, documents like birth certificates, voter ID cards, and passports will be emphasized in future verifications.
Legal experts note this change aligns with the government’s broader efforts to tighten immigration controls, especially in urban centers facing demographic pressures.
The police are also coordinating with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) and the Ministry of External Affairs for repatriation processes where applicable.
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