Aadhaar Update Now Costs Money in Tripura: Public Anger Grows Over Rising Charges, Silence of Political Parties

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, May 24, 2026

A fresh notification regarding Aadhaar services in Tripura has triggered strong reactions among common people as charges are now being imposed for various Aadhaar update services at government-run Aadhaar Enrolment Centres across the state from July 1, 2026.

According to the official notice issued by the Tripura Government’s General Administration Department, UIDAI-approved fees will now be collected for biometric updates, demographic corrections, and document updates at all permanent Aadhaar centres functioning under Sub-Divisional Magistrate offices, Block offices, and Agartala Municipal Corporation.

While new Aadhaar enrolment and mandatory biometric updates for certain children remain free for a limited period, most other services will now require payment. Biometric updates beyond the mandatory category will cost Rs. 125, while demographic and document updates will cost Rs. 75 each.

The move has sparked resentment among citizens who believe that Aadhaar, now essential for almost every government and financial service, should remain completely free for ordinary people. Many are questioning why citizens are being forced to pay repeatedly for correcting mistakes, updating mobile numbers, or modifying personal details linked with welfare schemes and banking systems.

Social media platforms have already started witnessing criticism and frustration from users who argue that the burden on common people is increasing day by day. Several citizens pointed out that prices and service charges are continuously rising, affecting poor and middle-class families the most.

Political silence over the issue has also become a major talking point. Despite the growing public concern, there has been no visible protest or strong statement from leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress, or Tipra Motha Party regarding the new Aadhaar charges.

Critics allege that major political parties are now more occupied with adjustment politics and political understandings rather than raising issues affecting ordinary citizens. As a result, public protest is currently finding expression mainly through social networking platforms instead of organised political movements.

Observers say the issue may grow further in coming days because Aadhaar has become indispensable for availing government schemes, pensions, scholarships, banking services, SIM cards, and digital verification processes. Any additional charge linked to such a compulsory identity system directly impacts millions of people.

The notification also mentioned that the fee structure may change further depending on future UIDAI policy revisions, creating apprehension that charges could increase again in the future.

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