2 crore Aadhaar numbers shut down—UIDAI launches biggest cleanup ever

UIDAI has sourced deceased persons data from Registrar General of India (RGI), States/UTs, Public Distribution System, National Social Assistance Program among others. It is also looking to collaborate with financial institutions and other such entities for getting deceased persons data.

"No Aadhaar number is ever re-assigned to another individual," read a statement issued by the Indian government.

However, in case of the death of a person, it is essential that his/her Aadhaar number is deactivated to prevent potential identity fraud, or unauthorised usage of such Aadhaar number for availing welfare benefits.

UIDAI has also launched a facility earlier this year - Reporting of death of a family member - on the myAadhaar Portal for deaths registered in 25 states and UTs presently using Civil Registration System.

The process of integration for remaining States/UTs with the portal is currently underway.

The family member, after authenticating himself/herself, is required to provide Aadhaar number and Death Registration Number along with other demographic details of the deceased person on the portal.

After due process of validation of the information submitted by the family member, further action is taken for the deactivation, or otherwise, of the Aadhaar number of the deceased person.

The government statement said UIDAI is encouraging Aadhaar number holders to report the death of their family members on myAadhaar Portal after obtaining their death certificate from the death registering authorities.