Aadhaar, PAN No Longer Valid Proof of Citizenship for Foreign Nationals in Delhi: Police Issues New Guidelines

Only Voter ID and Passport to Be Accepted for Nationality Verification Amid Crackdown on Illegal Immigration

New Delhi, May 1, 2025 — In a significant update related to Aadhaar and PAN cards, the Delhi Police, under directives from the Central Government, has clarified that these documents will no longer be accepted as proof of Indian citizenship, especially in cases involving foreign nationals. The new rule comes amid intensified efforts to identify and deport individuals residing illegally in India, particularly in the National Capital Region (NCR).

New Citizenship Verification Rule: What Has Changed

According to the official communication, only a Voter ID card or Indian passport will be considered valid proof of citizenship during identity verification drives. The move is aimed at curbing misuse of documents like:

• Aadhaar Card

• PAN Card

• Ration Card

These were previously being used by Bangladeshi and Rohingya migrants to falsely claim Indian nationality, as discovered during ongoing verification campaigns.

Why the Change Was Necessary

Authorities found that a significant number of illegal immigrants had obtained Aadhaar and PAN cards, making it difficult to distinguish them from genuine Indian citizens. Some were also in possession of refugee ID cards issued by UNHCR.

This raised concerns about the credibility of Indian identity documents and prompted the government to tighten the verification criteria. As a result, only Voter ID and Passport — both of which involve rigorous background checks — will now be considered legitimate proof of citizenship.

Action Against Pakistani and Other Foreign Nationals

Delhi Police has instructed all District Deputy Commissioners (DCPs) to identify and closely monitor suspected foreign nationals in their respective jurisdictions. According to reports:

• Over 3,500 Pakistani nationals currently reside in Delhi.

• More than 400 have already been deported.

• Long-term visa (LTV) protections are being extended only to Hindu refugees.

Authorities are also tightening visa policies in the wake of recent security threats, including a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir.

Visa Revocation for Pakistani Nationals

In line with new national security policies:

• The government is revoking visas issued to Pakistani nationals.

• Only diplomatic, medical (until April 29), and LTV visas are being conditionally honored.

• Medical visas post-April 29 are no longer valid.

• Intelligence agencies have been ordered to compile lists of Pakistani citizens and serve eviction notices.

Broader National Implications

This decision underscores the Indian government’s focus on national security and document integrity. Sources suggest that similar policies may be implemented in other Indian states soon.

Key Takeaways for Citizens and Stakeholders:

• Aadhaar and PAN are not valid proof of citizenship.

• Voter ID or Passport is now mandatory for identity verification in such cases.

• Stricter surveillance and deportation measures are being enacted.

• Visa policies for Pakistani nationals have been significantly altered.