Aadhar Card Cancel – In a major nationwide move, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has deactivated or cancelled over 65 lakh Aadhar cards across the country. This sweeping action was carried out to eliminate duplicate, fake, or inactive Aadhar numbers from the system, ensuring stronger data integrity and national security. While the step is being applauded for tightening the system, it has also caused confusion and concern among millions of citizens who fear losing access to crucial government services tied to Aadhar authentication.
Why Were 65 Lakh Aadhar Cards Cancelled?
UIDAI has clarified that the mass cancellation is part of a system clean-up exercise to remove inconsistencies and prevent fraud.
Key Reasons for Cancellation:
- Duplicate or Multiple Aadhar Cards linked to the same individual
- Fake Biometrics or Invalid Documents used during registration
- Non-verification or inactivity for several years
- Fraudulent usage or forged identity
- Cases identified during Aadhar authentication audits
Who Is Most at Risk of Aadhar Cancellation?
UIDAI has targeted cards that raised red flags during verification or failed biometric checks. The most vulnerable categories include:
| Risk Category | Reason for Cancellation |
|---|---|
| Elderly citizens without biometric update | Outdated biometrics or unverified contact details |
| Rural users with duplicate entries | Multiple enrollments due to errors or illiteracy |
| Migrant laborers | Frequent address changes, mismatched documents |
| Children aged 5–15 | No biometric update after 5 or 15 years |
| Inactive users for 5+ years | No transaction or authentication for long periods |
| Enrollments without valid proof | Forged IDs, rental agreements, or handwritten forms |
| People who missed mandatory updates | Failure to update photo, mobile, or address |
How to Check if Your Aadhar Is Still Active
It’s essential for every citizen to verify their Aadhar status immediately, especially if they have not used it for a long time or have changed mobile/address recently.
Steps to Check Aadhar Status:
- Visit the official UIDAI website: uidai.gov.in
- Go to the “Verify Aadhar Number” section
- Enter your Aadhar number and captcha
- The system will show whether your Aadhar is active, deactivated, or invalid
- If your Aadhar is inactive, visit the nearest Aadhar Seva Kendra for re-verification
Consequences of a Deactivated Aadhar Card
A cancelled or inactive Aadhar can impact your access to many essential services and benefits.
| Service or Benefit | Impact Without Active Aadhar |
|---|---|
| Bank account linking | May be blocked or deactivated |
| PAN-Aadhar linking | Income tax return filing failure |
| Subsidy for LPG or ration | No direct benefit transfer (DBT) |
| Pension or government scheme benefits | May be stopped or withheld |
| SIM card activation | Re-verification needed or service suspension |
| Passport or visa processing | Delay due to lack of identity proof |
| School/college admissions | Identity mismatch or verification rejection |
What to Do If Your Aadhar Has Been Cancelled?
UIDAI has made provisions for people whose Aadhar has been deactivated. You can reapply or re-verify at an official center.
Actions to Take:
- Visit an Aadhar Seva Kendra with original documents (ID, address proof, biometrics)
- Submit a request for Aadhar reactivation
- Provide updated biometrics and documents as needed
- Take a printout or e-Aadhar after the status changes to active
Reactivation can take 5–15 working days, depending on the issue and your location.
UIDAI’s Official Guidelines and Helpline
UIDAI urges all citizens to keep their Aadhar updated. It is recommended that every Aadhar cardholder:
- Updates mobile number and address regularly
- Does biometric update at age 5 and 15
- Uses Aadhar-linked services periodically
- Registers valid and verified documents only
UIDAI Helpline:
- Toll-Free Number: 1947
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: uidai.gov.in
- WhatsApp Chatbot: +91-9971056767
The cancellation of over 65 lakh Aadhar cards is a wake-up call for everyone to ensure their identity records are accurate and up to date. While the government’s step is essential for eliminating fraud and strengthening the system, it’s equally important that genuine users don’t get affected due to carelessness or lack of information. If your Aadhar has not been updated in years or if you’ve changed your address or phone number, it is strongly advised to verify and update your records today.
FAQs
Q1. Why was my Aadhar card cancelled without any notice?
Many cards were cancelled due to non-updated biometrics, duplicate entries, or forged documents. UIDAI recommends periodic updates.
Q2. Can I apply for a new Aadhar if mine was cancelled?
Yes, you can apply for reactivation or a new Aadhar depending on the reason for cancellation.
Q3. How long does it take to reactivate a cancelled Aadhar card?
Typically, it takes 5 to 15 working days after successful re-verification.
Q4. Will I be informed if my Aadhar is about to be deactivated?
UIDAI may send SMS/email alerts, but many cases are detected during authentication. It’s best to check status regularly online.
Q5. Is it compulsory to update biometrics at age 15?
Yes, UIDAI mandates biometric updates at ages 5 and 15 to maintain validity and security of the Aadhar card.
