Faced with backlash over a warning issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) asking people to avoid sharing photocopies of Aadhaar cards with any organization, the Center on Sunday said the information has been misinterpreted.
In a fresh order, the Center said, “Given the possibility of misinterpretation of the press release, the same is withdrawn with immediate effect. The holders of Aadhaar cards issued by UIDAI shall be permitted to exercise common discretion in sharing and using UIDAI Aadhaar only.” Recommended. No. No.”
Earlier in the day, the Bengaluru regional office, UIDAI, had issued a warning to Aadhaar card users to use masked copies instead of sharing its photocopies.
The authorities had suggested sharing documents with those holding valid licenses. It stated, “Only organizations that have obtained a user license from UIDAI can use Aadhaar to establish an individual’s identity.”Unlicensed private entities like hotels or film halls are required to collect copies of Aadhaar cards or Not allowed to keep.”
“This is an offense under the Aadhaar Act 2016. If any private entity demands to view the Aadhar card or ask for a photocopy of the Aadhar card, please verify that they have a valid user license from UIDAI.”
To which, the Center replied, “It is learned that this was issued in the context of an attempt by them to misuse the photoshopped Aadhar card. The release advised people to share their Aadhaar photocopies with any organization.” Do not do this as it can be misused. A masked Aadhaar, which displays only the last four digits of the Aadhaar number, can also be used.”
“The Aadhaar Identity Authentication ecosystem has provided adequate facilities to protect and safeguard the identity and privacy of the Aadhaar holder,” the press release said.
Soon after the warning issued by the Bengaluru unit, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi hit out at the central government and said, “Government agencies had made Aadhaar mandatory for years. Now they are common people.” Hope to argue with you. Some government notification and risk of losing essential services. Don’t forget that Aadhaar has been used by mobs to harass and kill. A Muslim vendor in Dewas MP was arrested for not having Aadhaar. was beaten up.”
He further shared some news articles on Twitter claiming inconvenience to people due to lack of Aadhar cards. “A handicapped man, Bhanwarlal Jain, was killed by a former BJP councilor on the grounds of “suspicion” that he was Muslim and “failed” to produce Aadhaar,” he tweeted. There have been several cases where Aadhaar has been fatal.
