New Delhi’s Initiative to Deactivate Deceased Aadhaar Numbers

In a significant move to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the Aadhaar database, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has deactivated over 25 million Aadhaar numbers belonging to deceased individuals. This initiative forms part of a nationwide strategy aimed at preventing identity-related fraud and ensuring that government welfare benefits reach only those who are eligible.

Why Aadhaar Deactivation After Death is Necessary

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology emphasizes that keeping an Aadhaar number active posthumously raises the risk of misuse, particularly in relation to subsidies, pensions, and various social welfare schemes. When an individual passes away, the associated Aadhaar number must be deactivated to curb unauthorized use of their identity—this is now regarded as a high-priority measure.

Moreover, it’s important to note that the address registered in Aadhaar doesn’t always align with the state or Union Territory where the death is officially recorded. Consequently, cross-verification of data from multiple sources becomes essential to maintain the integrity of the Aadhaar system.

Security Measures to Prevent Fraud

As part of its commitment to safeguarding the Aadhaar ecosystem, UIDAI has instituted several security measures aimed at shielding the system from exploitation. Some of these measures include:

• Biometric Lock/Unlock: This feature enables users to prevent unauthorized authentication attempts by locking and unlocking their biometric details as needed.

• Aadhaar Lock/Unlock Facility: Users can control the usability of their Aadhaar number by locking it when not in use.

• Face Authentication with Liveness Detection: This cutting-edge technology minimizes the risk of spoofing and impersonation by ensuring that the person attempting to authenticate is physically present.

• Offline Verification Tools: Features like secure QR codes and paperless offline e-KYC enhance security while streamlining processes.

• No Sharing of Core Biometrics: Maintaining the confidentiality of biometric data is paramount; hence, UIDAI guarantees that no such information will be shared.

• Encrypted Storage: All Aadhaar data is stored in secured, encrypted vaults to prevent unauthorized access.

• Regular Database Clean-Up: A routine removal of duplicates and deactivation of Aadhaar numbers associated with deceased individuals ensures the database remains current.

• Controlled Update Process: Demographic changes are permitted exclusively based on UIDAI-approved documents, minimizing loopholes for fraud.

Data Matching and the Road Ahead

To effectively identify Aadhaar numbers belonging to deceased individuals, UIDAI is leveraging data from the Registrar General of India (RGI), various state and Union Territory agencies, and programs such as the Public Distribution System (PDS) and National Social Assistance Programme. Collaborating with banks and other institutions for verified death records is also a significant part of this initiative.

UIDAI has reiterated a vital understanding: Aadhaar numbers are never reissued. Deactivation following an individual’s death is not just critical; it’s essential for preventing fraudulent activities and safeguarding government resources intended for genuine beneficiaries. This move is, therefore, a crucial step in fortifying the credibility, transparency, and integrity of the Aadhaar ecosystem.

By undertaking the deactivation of Aadhaar numbers linked to deceased individuals, UIDAI is making strides toward a more secure and trustworthy welfare system. As India continues to delve into digital governance, such initiatives will play a pivotal role in reinforcing public trust and ensuring that welfare benefits support those who truly need them.