Aadhaar Card Is NOT Proof of Citizenship: Supreme Court Reiterates, Here’s What Actually Confirms Indian Citizenship

New Delhi, August 2024: If you believe your Aadhaar card, PAN card, or even your Voter ID proves you are an Indian citizen, think again. The Supreme Court of India has once again clarified—a mere Aadhaar card does not prove citizenship.

During a recent hearing on voter list revision in Bihar, the Supreme Court stated unequivocally: Aadhaar cannot be considered proof of Indian citizenship and its verification is essential. This echoes the Bombay High Court’s recent ruling while hearing a case involving a Bangladeshi national. The High Court stressed that Aadhaar, PAN, or Voter ID cards are only identification documents or for accessing government services—simply having them does not make anyone a citizen of India.

In fact, the Bombay High Court denied bail to the Bangladeshi petitioner, underscoring that citizenship cannot be claimed merely on these documents.

If Not Aadhaar, PAN or Voter ID—What Proves Indian Citizenship?

The Supreme Court has firmly established that even the Election Commission’s argument—that Aadhaar is not decisive evidence—holds merit. In fact, the Aadhaar Act itself does not list it as citizenship proof.

So, what does prove Indian citizenship?

According to the Citizenship Act, 1955, you are an Indian citizen if:

You were born in India: Anyone born in India after July 1, 1987, is an Indian citizen only if at least one parent was an Indian citizen at the time of their birth.
You have a valid Birth Certificate: If you don’t, get a Non-Availability Certificate from the local registration office and then obtain your birth certificate.

Domicile/Residence Proof:

Get a domicile or residence certificate by staying in a state for at least three years, supported by birth certificates, family register copies, or school certificates.

Foreign Nationals:

People from other countries can apply for Indian citizenship under various conditions (through descent, registration, or naturalization). For example:

By territory extension: If India acquires new territory, inhabitants automatically become Indian citizens.
By naturalization: Long-term residents can apply under the rules specified in the Third Schedule of the Citizenship Act.

What You Should Do:

Ask yourself: do you have the documents that actually prove Indian citizenship—such as a birth certificate, domicile, and official entries—or do you rely solely on Aadhaar, PAN, or Voter ID?

Share your thoughts and experience in the comments. Do you think most Indians are aware of what truly proves citizenship? Share this report to alert more people—because a card is not always citizenship!