In a significant move aimed at identifying and acting against illegal immigrants residing in the national capital, the Delhi Police has announced that only Voter ID cards or Indian passports will be accepted as valid proof of Indian citizenship. Documents such as the Aadhaar card, PAN card, or ration card will no longer be considered sufficient to establish one’s citizenship status.
This step, issued under the direction of the central government, marks a crucial turning point in the efforts to detect and deport undocumented immigrants, particularly individuals from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the Rohingya community, who are suspected to be living illegally under false identities.
Only Voter ID or Passport Valid for Citizenship Verification
According to senior officials from Delhi Police, this new policy was implemented after authorities discovered that a large number of foreign nationals were fraudulently claiming Indian citizenship using Aadhaar cards, ration cards, and PAN cards—documents that, while useful for identity verification, do not establish citizenship under Indian law.
“From now on, only a Voter ID card or a valid Indian passport will be treated as proof of citizenship,” a senior Delhi Police officer confirmed. This directive, part of an ongoing national verification initiative, seeks to streamline and standardize the identification process during official checks.
Widespread Misuse of Aadhaar and Other IDs
The Delhi Police began a special verification campaign in October last year to identify and track illegal residents. During this drive, authorities uncovered a disturbing trend: many Bangladeshi nationals, Rohingyas, and even some Pakistanis living in Delhi possessed valid Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, and ration cards—raising serious concerns about document misuse.
As per a Hindustan Times report, the use of these identity documents by illegal immigrants has made it increasingly difficult for enforcement agencies to distinguish between genuine citizens and unauthorized residents.
District-Level Orders and Intensified Surveillance
To effectively implement this policy, Delhi Police has issued strict instructions to all District Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs). They have been tasked with stepping up local surveillance and keeping a close watch on individuals displaying suspicious behavior or unable to produce valid citizenship documents.
“The operation will continue until every illegal immigrant is identified and deported,” the officer said, emphasizing that the directive is part of a long-term crackdown that will remain active until objectives are met.
Focus on Pakistani Nationals in Delhi
The policy also applies to individuals from Pakistan currently residing in Delhi. At present, there are an estimated 3,500 Pakistani nationals living in the capital, of whom approximately 520 are Muslims. Over 400 individuals have already returned to Pakistan via the Attari border, as part of the voluntary and enforced return process.
The Delhi Police has ramped up monitoring of the remaining residents and is coordinating with relevant authorities to ensure proper documentation and deportation procedures are followed.
Implications for Residents and Citizens
This new guideline serves as a critical reminder for Indian residents to ensure their citizenship documentation is up-to-date. While the Aadhaar card remains important for availing government services and subsidies, it is not recognized as proof of nationality. Indian citizens are now urged to ensure they possess a valid Voter ID or passport, particularly if residing in sensitive areas or undergoing official verification processes.
Conclusion
The Delhi Police’s latest move underlines the seriousness of the government’s stance on illegal immigration. By mandating voter ID cards or passports for citizenship verification, the authorities aim to plug loopholes and protect national interests. As this campaign progresses, it is likely to have far-reaching effects, not only in Delhi but also across other urban centers facing similar challenges with undocumented migrants.
