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What happens to Aadhaar card after the demise of holder?

Worried about the security of the Aadhaar card of a deceased individual? Here are the two ways you can protect the Aadhaar details.

Published By: Shubham Verma | Published: May 20, 2024, 10:18 PM (IST)

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Highlights

  • Most people are unsure about what they can do with a deceased's Aadhaar number.
  • UIDAI currently has no system for the deactivation of such Aadhaar numbers.
  • But there are two ways to ensure the safety of these Aadhaar numbers.
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The Aadhaar card is the government-issued identity letter of an Indian citizen. Issued by the autonomous Unique Identification Authority of India, an Aadhaar is a 12-digit identification number assigned to a citizen, associated with their biometric data, including fingerprint and iris information. An Aadhaar ensures various government services, including subsidies after due verification. The bottom line is that an Aadhaar card or number is essential to receive government grants, apply for a bank account, and even get a new job. news Also Read: Will your Aadhaar card be invalid after June 14? Know the truth

An individual’s Aadhaar card is one of the most significant documents they should always carry, but it is good as long as they are alive. Aadhaar cards are not currently deactivated on the holder’s death. So, what exactly happens to the Aadhaar card after the holder is no longer alive? news Also Read: How to order Aadhaar PVC Card online in 7 simple steps

Aadhaar card after death

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) does not have a system to transfer a person’s Aadhaar card after their demise to their family. The Aadhaar cannot be deactivated either, making the Aadhaar details prone to unauthorised access and unlawful claims. However, there are two ways to secure a person’s Aadhaar after their death. news Also Read: How to download masked Aadhaar card to hide your ID

— Lock biometrics: UIDAI allows the locking of a deceased’s biometric data associated with their Aadhaar number to prevent misuse of their fingerprints or iris scans. You can visit the UIDAI’s website to lock the biometrics.

— Keep the card safe: The deceased’s family members can keep the Aadhaar card in a secure place to prevent theft and unwanted access. Hand over the Aadhaar card only to people you trust.

According to some reports, UIDAI is working on a system where Aadhaar cards would be deactivated after a death certificate is issued. If you are concerned about the Aadhaar card of a deceased individual, you can use the aforementioned methods to ensure their identity’s security.