The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced stricter guidelines for making corrections to names and dates of birth in Aadhaar cards. These updated regulations are causing difficulties for applicants seeking to modify their personal details. Now, providing a birth certificate or a high school mark sheet is mandatory to alter the date of birth in the Aadhaar database.
Tougher Procedure for Name Correction
Individuals aiming to make complete name changes must now undergo the Gazette notification process through the Government of India. Previously, such changes could be made using a letter authenticated by the local village head (Pradhan), an MLA, or a PCS officer. These relaxed measures are no longer valid. Reports indicate that nearly 60% of Aadhaar correction requests are related to names and dates of birth.
Limited Opportunities for Corrections
Under the revised rules, UIDAI allows only a single opportunity to modify the date of birth and a maximum of two opportunities to correct the name. Errors in Aadhaar details often arose during the initial registration process when private agencies and government bodies inaccurately recorded spellings, addresses, and dates of birth.
Since Aadhaar has now become a critical identity document linked to essential services like government schemes, bank accounts, mobile numbers, PAN cards, and more, individuals are rushing to Aadhaar Seva Kendras to rectify their data.
New Verification Process for Date of Birth Updates
Ajay Kumar, Operations Manager at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra in Kanpur district, explains that updating the date of birth for individuals under 18 requires submitting a valid birth certificate. For adults, a high school mark sheet featuring a photograph is necessary. Government employees can submit their official identity cards as proof.
However, challenges arise for individuals, particularly women and elderly citizens, who have not completed high school. In such cases, obtaining a birth certificate is compulsory. If this is not feasible, an alternative verification process is available. This involves submitting a letter from the village Pradhan, inquiries from neighbors, an affidavit, and copies of parents’ Aadhaar cards.
Medical Certificate for Age Confirmation
Additionally, applicants may be asked to obtain an age verification certificate from an MBBS doctor. This certificate must clearly state the individual’s estimated age. Upon submission of all these documents at the Aadhaar Seva Kendra, the date of birth can be updated.
These new procedures aim to enhance data accuracy and reduce fraudulent modifications in Aadhaar records. However, they have also led to inconvenience for individuals needing legitimate changes. It is advisable for applicants to gather all necessary documents beforehand to ensure a smooth correction process.