UP Govt Directs All Departments Not To Accept Aadhaar As Proof Of Date Of Birth

The Uttar Pradesh Planning Department has advised all departments to stop accepting Aadhaar cards as birth proof. This follows reports that some departments still use Aadhaar for this purpose. A letter from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) dated October 31, 2025, clarified that Aadhaar isn't valid as birth proof. Despite this, some departments continue using it, prompting the latest directive.

The directive was issued by Amit Singh Singhal, Special Secretary of Planning, to various secretaries across the state. The UIDAI had previously informed departments of this requirement. However, some are still mistakenly using Aadhaar as birth proof, necessitating the renewed reminder. The Planning Department oversees the implementation of Aadhaar-related directives.

UIDAI Clarifies Aadhaar's Role

The UIDAI's Lucknow regional office released the letter on October 31. It reiterated that Aadhaar should not serve as birth proof. This reminder followed a similar notice issued on June 5, which some departments have not fully implemented. The letter was issued by Deputy Director Aditya Prakash Bajpai, who stressed the importance of using correct documents for birth verification.

Proper documentation is crucial, particularly in situations like job applications and educational admissions, where age is a critical criterion. Officials emphasised that birth certificates, high-school marksheets, and other specified documents should be used instead. This change aims to maintain integrity in processes where age verification is essential.

Preventing Fraudulent Activities

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya supports the directive, believing it will help curb fraudulent activities. He cited past incidents, like Azam Khan allegedly altering his son's PAN card for political benefits, as examples of misuse. Maurya believes this step sends a positive message and should be welcomed universally.

The move to ensure accurate birth verification aligns with efforts to enhance transparency and reliability in official processes. By using appropriate documents, departments can prevent misuse and maintain trust in administrative procedures. The directive serves as a reminder to adhere to established guidelines for verifying birth dates.