What's the new 'strict' rule Himanta Sarma announced for immigrants
In a bid to curb the "influx of illegal foreigners," Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced that all new applicants for Aadhaar cards must provide their National Register of Citizens (NRC) application receipt number (ARN). This measure will be implemented from October 1 and the state government will be ''very strict" in issuing Aadhaar cards, he said. Sarma stated that this requirement reflects concerns over "doubtful citizens" as applications for Aadhaar cards have exceeded the state's population.
Aadhaar applications exceed Assam's population
Sarma revealed that four districts in Assam have reported more applications for Aadhaar cards than their total projected population. These include Barpeta with 103.74%, Dhubri with 103%, and both Morigaon and Nagaon with 101%. However, the submission of the ARN would not apply to the 9.55 lakh people whose biometrics were locked during the NRC process or those residing in tea garden areas due to practical difficulties like inadequate biometric machines.
Assam government to scrutinize Aadhaar issuance
The chief minister further stated that in Assam, Aadhaar cards will only be issued to new applicants after receiving a no objection certificate (NOC) from the concerned district commissioner. "Such certificates will be issued after minutely examining all aspects. If the applicant has the NRC ARN, it becomes clear that he was in the state before 2014," Sarma said. He added that his government plans to intensify identification of illegal foreigners following recent apprehensions of several Bangladeshis.
Assam government to enhance border surveillance
Sarma also announced plans to strengthen border surveillance and patrolling in areas under the jurisdiction of border outposts. He emphasized stronger coordination with the Border Security Force (BSF) and other central agencies for seamless information sharing and joint operations. Additionally, intelligence-gathering mechanisms focusing on cross-border networks and infiltration routes will be enhanced along with community awareness programs in border areas.