UIDAI Deactivates 2.5 Crore Aadhaar Numbers; Check Your Aadhaar Status Online

A major action has been taken regarding Aadhaar cards in the country. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has deactivated more than 2.5 crore Aadhaar numbers of deceased citizens. This step has been taken to prevent the misuse of Aadhaar numbers of deceased individuals and to curb identity fraud. The Ministry of Electronics and IT, in a statement issued on February 4, 2026, said, "As part of a nationwide cleanup drive to maintain the continuous accuracy and integrity of the Aadhaar database, UIDAI has so far deactivated more than 2.5 crore Aadhaar numbers of deceased individuals."

Why is Aadhaar Deactivation Necessary?

The Aadhaar card has become the most important identity document for every citizen. It is required everywhere, from opening a bank account to availing government schemes. Therefore, if a deceased person's Aadhaar remains active, someone could misuse it to fraudulently obtain benefits. To prevent this risk, UIDAI has launched this cleanup drive.

Online Service: ‘Reporting of Death’

UIDAI launched an online service called ‘Reporting of Death of a Family Member’ in June 2025. Through this service, family members can easily get the Aadhaar of the deceased deactivated. For this, family members need to keep documents such as the deceased's Aadhaar card, death certificate, doctor's medical statement, and proof of relationship ready.

Process: How to Deactivate Aadhaar

First, go to myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
Select the ‘Report death of a family member’ option
Enter the deceased's Aadhaar number and log in with OTP
Upload the required documents
After submission, UIDAI will deactivate the Aadhaar.

How to Check Aadhaar Status

UIDAI also provides a facility to check the Aadhaar deactivation status.

Go to the MyAadhaar portal and select the ‘Check Aadhaar Status’ option
Enter the 12-digit Aadhaar number and captcha
If the Aadhaar has been deactivated, the status will show ‘Inactive’ or ‘Deactivated.’
Those who have applied earlier can also check the status by entering the 27-digit request number. Implemented nationwide

This facility has currently been implemented in 25 states and union territories. It is linked to the Civil Registration System, which maintains official records of births and deaths.