Has Manipur Adopted Stringent Norms for Aadhaar Issuance?

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Has Manipur Adopted Stringent Norms for Aadhaar Issuance?

Synopsis

Manipur has taken a bold step by implementing stringent regulations for Aadhaar issuance, aiming to prevent unauthorized foreigners from obtaining it. This initiative highlights the state's commitment to safeguarding its identity and ensuring the integrity of its citizens' data amidst ongoing concerns over illegal immigration.

Key Takeaways

  • Strict regulations for Aadhaar issuance in Manipur.
  • Mandatory scrutiny at the state headquarters.
  • Updates for biometric data are free of charge.
  • Focus on preventing unauthorized access to Aadhaar.
  • Concerns over illegal immigration persist amidst ethnic violence.

Imphal, July 1 (NationPress) Manipur has implemented extremely strict regulations for Aadhaar issuance to guarantee that no unauthorized foreigners can acquire the Aadhaar, an official reported on Tuesday.

Commissioner (Home) N. Ashok Kumar stated that the detailed verification and scrutiny process safeguards against unauthorized access to Aadhaar. He emphasized that Manipur has established one of the most rigorous procedures for issuing adult Aadhaar in India.

The process adheres to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India), ensuring that Aadhaar applications are thoroughly vetted before approval.

This information was shared during a high-level meeting at Raj Bhawan on Tuesday, where Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla assessed the Aadhaar enrollment, updates, and associated services in the state.

Attendees included Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh, Commissioner (Home), and senior officials from the Home Department, UIDAI, and the Social Welfare and Education Departments.

Ashok Kumar highlighted that all adult Aadhaar cases must undergo mandatory scrutiny and receive approval solely at the state headquarters under the supervision of the Special Secretary Home.

A UIDAI official remarked that Manipur's adult Aadhaar procedure might be the most stringent in the nation. To uphold the security and integrity of the Aadhaar system, two essential updates have been instituted for biometric and biographic data: Mandatory Biometric Updation-1 (MBU-1) between ages 5-7, and MBU-2 after reaching age 15, both free of charge.

These measures ensure that Aadhaar cardholders' information is up-to-date and secure, effectively preventing identity misuse.

Updating biometric data enhances security and facilitates smooth access to government and financial services without authentication hurdles, according to the statement.

In light of ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur for over two years, the issue of illegal immigration remains a significant concern in the northeastern state. Three prominent Meitei-based Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) demanded the introduction of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur during their meeting with MHA officials in New Delhi on Monday to identify illegal immigrants and safeguard indigenous populations.

Point of View

Manipur's decision to enforce strict Aadhaar issuance norms reflects a growing urgency to address illegal immigration and protect indigenous rights. It emphasizes the need for robust verification processes to maintain national security while ensuring that the rights of genuine citizens are upheld.
NationPress
21/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the new norms for Aadhaar issuance in Manipur?
Manipur has implemented stringent regulations requiring detailed verification of Aadhaar applications to prevent unauthorized foreigners from obtaining Aadhaar.
Who is responsible for approving adult Aadhaar applications?
All adult Aadhaar applications must be scrutinized and approved at the state headquarters in the office of the Special Secretary Home.
What are Mandatory Biometric Updation requirements?
Mandatory Biometric Updation-1 occurs between the ages of 5-7, and MBU-2 is required after reaching age 15, both at no cost to individuals.
Why is illegal immigration a concern in Manipur?
The ongoing ethnic violence and illegal immigration issues have raised significant concerns regarding the protection of indigenous populations.
How does Manipur's Aadhaar process compare nationally?
Many officials believe that Manipur's adult Aadhaar procedure is among the most stringent in the country, aimed at ensuring security and integrity.