UIDAI Deactivates Over 2 Crore Aadhaar Numbers of Deceased Individuals

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has deactivated more than 2 crore Aadhaar numbers belonging to deceased individuals as part of a nationwide effort to maintain the accuracy of the Aadhaar database.

Data Sources and Collaboration

For this initiative, UIDAI has collected data on deceased persons from the Registrar General of India (RGI), States and Union Territories, the Public Distribution System, the National Social Assistance Program, and other sources. The authority is also working with financial institutions and other relevant entities to obtain additional data on deceased individuals.

Importance of Deactivation

No Aadhaar number is ever reassigned to another individual. However, it is crucial to deactivate Aadhaar numbers of deceased persons to prevent potential identity fraud or unauthorized use of such numbers for accessing welfare benefits.

Reporting Facility for Families

Earlier this year, UIDAI introduced a facility on the myAadhaar Portal to allow family members to report the death of a relative. This facility is currently available for deaths registered in 25 states and Union Territories using the Civil Registration System. Integration with the remaining states and UTs is in progress.

Family members must authenticate themselves and provide the Aadhaar number and Death Registration Number of the deceased, along with other demographic details, on the portal. After validation of the information, the Aadhaar number is deactivated or further action is taken as appropriate.

UIDAI is encouraging Aadhaar holders to report the death of their family members through the myAadhaar Portal after obtaining a death certificate from the relevant registering authorities.