Paper short abstract:

This paper examines India's novel biometric identification programme (Aadhaar) and the firm insertion of the knowable body into an array of criteria for recognition by the state. It asks how this form of individual identification informs notions of citizenship and residence.

Paper long abstract:

Inaugurated in 2009, the Indian government's Aadhaar (foundation) scheme aims to issue each of India's 1.2 billion residents a twelve-digit Unique Identification Number (UID), linked to individual biometric (iris scans, fingerprints, facial photograph) and demographic indices. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) cites "fake", "duplicate" and "ghost" identities as the biggest obstructions to governance and hopes, in time, to replace all material identity documents with this electronically verifiable biometric-based ID. Paradoxically, applicants are asked to furnish prior identification—the very documents the UIDAI views with suspicion— before they are issued a UID. Since the UIDAI aims to create a database inclusive of all residents within India's territory, it has also created a provision allowing individuals without documents to enroll for a UID. These residents may be "introduced" to the UIDAI by certified organizations or individuals. The UID guarantees "identity", not citizenship or benefits. In 2013, responding to concerns over indiscriminate UID allocation, the Supreme Court of India passed an order saying that no "illegal immigrants" may be issued UIDs. The order prompts certain critical questions: biometric confirmation that "you are who you say you are"--what "identity" does it generate? How does the UIDAI's "one body, one number" dictum articulate with reigning criteria for legal recognition by the Indian state? Does privileging the corporeal as a source of identity disrupt notions of citizenship? This paper addresses debates precipitated by the UID concerning the body and identity, residence and citizenship.