New Delhi: Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Monday reaffirmed that the Aadhaar card cannot be accepted as proof of date of birth, domicile, or citizenship in the electoral process, in line with the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Aadhaar Act. “Section 9 of the Act states that Aadhaar cannot serve as proof of domicile or citizenship. Similarly, several Supreme Court rulings have confirmed that Aadhaar is not proof of date of birth. In line with this, the Aadhaar authority has issued notifications emphasising this point...,” Gyanesh Kumar stated at a press conference.

The CEC explained that, while Aadhaar can be provided as one of multiple optional identity proofs during Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercises, supporting documents are mandatory to establish legal requirements such as citizenship or age. Submission of Aadhaar details for voter enumeration is strictly voluntary, and other documentation is required to complete eligibility verification.

The clarification happened at the announcement of a pan-India Special Intensive Revision of voter lists covering 12 states and Union Territories, with an estimated 51 crore electors. This nationwide enumeration begins November 4, 2025, with draft rolls to be published December 9 and final rolls on February 7, 2026. Booth Level Officers across polling stations will distribute Unique Enumeration Forms to all voters, with online verification available for urban residents and temporary migrants.

The SIR aims to address issues such as duplicate registrations, non-removal of deceased voters, and wrongful inclusion of non-citizens due to increased migration, ensuring the accuracy and transparency of India’s electoral rolls ahead of forthcoming state elections. While Aadhaar may be used for identification, the Election Commission’s guidance will follow apex court rulings and electoral law to maintain the integrity of the country’s voter lists.