Aadhaar, PAN, Ration Card No Longer Accepted as Proof of Indian Citizenship: Government Announces New Rule
Major Policy Shift After Pahalgam Terror Attack
In a major policy change following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government has announced that Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, and ration cards will no longer be accepted as valid proof of Indian citizenship. This decision especially targets individuals suspected of living illegally in the national capital.
Only Voter ID and Passport Accepted as Citizenship Proof
According to a Hindustan Times report, the Delhi Police have confirmed that only voter ID cards and Indian passports will now be accepted to prove Indian citizenship. This directive comes from the central government as part of broader efforts to tighten verification processes and improve national security.
Verification Drive Uncovers False Citizenship Claims
Since October last year, the Delhi Police and other agencies have been conducting an extensive verification drive. During these checks, many foreign nationals—especially from Bangladesh and the Rohingya community—were found using Aadhaar, PAN, and ration cards to falsely claim Indian citizenship.
Why Aadhaar, PAN, and Ration Cards Are Not Proof of Citizenship
It’s important to clarify that while India issues Aadhaar, PAN, and ration cards, none of these documents establish citizenship.
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Aadhaar card: Confirms identity and address, but not nationality (as clarified by UIDAI).
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PAN card: Used for tax purposes, not for proving citizenship.
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Ration card: Helps families access subsidized food and goods, but does not confirm citizenship status.
Valid Documents for Proving Indian Citizenship
The government recognizes birth certificates and domicile certificates as primary documents to prove Indian citizenship. Under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, birth certificates issued by authorized authorities serve as valid proof if the individual was born in India.
Government Crackdown on Pakistani Nationals
Following the Pahalgam attack, the government has also taken strict action against Pakistani nationals:
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Visas issued to Pakistani citizens are being canceled, except for medical, diplomatic, and long-term visas (LTVs).
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All medical visas will become invalid after April 29.
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The Delhi Police and intelligence agencies have been ordered to identify Pakistani nationals in Delhi and issue immediate departure notices.
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Hindu Pakistani citizens with valid long-term visas will not be affected by this rule.
Strengthening National Security and Verification
This major policy shift aims to enhance national security and ensure that all residents undergo proper verification. It reinforces the message that identity documents like Aadhaar, PAN, and ration cards are not sufficient to establish Indian citizenship.
