Former Congress Rajya Sabha MP Rajmani Patel criticized Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s decision on Aadhaar card issuance, warning it could fuel hostility within communities.
Patel expressed concern over Sarma’s move, which aims to address unchecked immigration. Opposition leaders have accused the Assam government of implementing divisive policies. “The Chief Minister’s decision seems driven by ill intent. Our Constitution clearly defines citizenship laws,” Patel stated.
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He emphasized that any changes to these laws must be made through Parliament, warning that unilateral actions could create social unrest. Sensitive matters like this, he argued, should be handled by both the Centre and Parliament through proper deliberation.
On Saturday, Sarma announced that Aadhaar cards would not be issued to individuals who didn’t apply for the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in 2014. He cited districts like Dhubri, Barpeta, and Morigaon, where the number of Aadhaar cards issued exceeds projected population figures.
In response, the Assam government introduced a new protocol requiring NRC application numbers for Aadhaar issuance. Sarma defended the move, stating that the Central government has granted states the authority to decide whether an individual should receive an Aadhaar card.
The decision has sparked political debate, with opposition leaders warning of its divisive potential, while the Assam government insists it is necessary to manage immigration effectively.