In a significant move to uphold the integrity of the national identity database, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has deactivated over 2 crore Aadhaar numbers belonging to deceased individuals. This large-scale data-cleaning exercise aims to prevent identity fraud, curb unauthorized access, and prevent misuse of welfare benefits linked to Aadhaar.

The UIDAI sourced the data of deceased individuals from various government departments and agencies, including the Registrar General of India (RGI), state governments, Union Territories, the Public Distribution System (PDS), and the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP). The authority is also planning to collaborate with financial institutions and other entities to strengthen the process of obtaining verified data on deceased persons.

UIDAI has clarified that Aadhaar numbers are never reassigned to another person. Deactivation after death is essential to ensure the accuracy of beneficiary databases and prevent fraudulent withdrawals or digital impersonation. Instances such as continued withdrawal of pensions or the misuse of Aadhaar-linked subsidies are among the risks the exercise seeks to eliminate.

To streamline the process of reporting the death of a family member, UIDAI launched an online facility earlier this year on the myAadhaar portal. The "Reporting of death of a family member" feature is currently active in 25 states and Union Territories that use the Civil Registration System, with integration for the remaining regions underway.

Family members can authenticate themselves on the portal and submit the deceased person's Aadhaar number, Death Registration Number, and demographic details. UIDAI then validates the information with the relevant authorities before initiating deactivation. Aadhaar holders are encouraged to report the deaths of family members on the portal after obtaining the official death certificate from the registering authorities.

UIDAI maintains that it relies on multiple data streams and layered verification checks to minimize errors. The authority has also published procedures for reactivating Aadhaar numbers that were deactivated in error. An individual who is alive but marked as deceased can apply for reactivation and submit prescribed evidence for verification.

This extensive clean-up drive signifies UIDAI's commitment to maintaining an accurate and reliable database, which is crucial for effective governance and the delivery of social welfare benefits. By proactively deactivating Aadhaar numbers of deceased individuals and urging citizens to report deaths, UIDAI aims to fortify the digital identity infrastructure and prevent potential misuse.