How to deactivate an Aadhaar card? Why is it necessary to have it locked following someone's death?
Fraud involving Aadhaar cards has increased significantly in recent times. When a family member passes away, it is standard practice to close their bank accounts and cancel their PAN card and SIM card. However, it is equally crucial to deactivate or lock the deceased person's Aadhaar card. The process for doing so is quite straightforward. While the UIDAI does not provide an option to completely deactivate or delete an Aadhaar card, it can be secured and blocked.
Why is it important to deactivate an Aadhaar card after death?
If an Aadhaar card remains active after a person's death, it could be misused by cybercriminals or anti-social elements. This could lead to fraudulent activities such as obtaining SIM cards, making unauthorized withdrawals from bank accounts, or securing loans. Furthermore, if the deceased was a beneficiary of a pension, ration, or any other government welfare scheme, an active Aadhaar card could allow for the continued, illicit transfer or withdrawal of these benefits. Additionally, updating or closing the deceased's digital and identity-related documents helps prevent legal complications or fraud during the transfer of assets, insurance policies, or demat accounts to the rightful heirs.
How can an Aadhaar card be deactivated?
Currently, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) does not offer a direct option to completely deactivate or delete an Aadhaar card online. This is because the Aadhaar database is maintained as a secure legal and historical record. Nevertheless, you can take steps to secure and block it.
If you have online access to the deceased's Aadhaar account, you can visit the 'MyAadhaar' portal or app and immediately lock their biometrics. This will prevent anyone from using the Aadhaar card through fingerprint or iris (eye) scans. A legal heir or a close relative of the deceased can visit the nearest authorized Aadhaar Seva Kendra, carrying the death certificate and their own identity proof. There, they can submit a copy of the death certificate to the official and request that this information be recorded in the Aadhaar database.
Alternatively, you may send a written request to the official UIDAI helpdesk—or via email, attaching the death certificate—to have the Aadhaar number blocked or deactivated.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we modified it for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
