New Aadhaar Verification Rule – The government is set to introduce a new rule concerning Aadhaar card verification. Soon, hotels, event organisers, and similar establishments will no longer be allowed to keep physical photocopies of Aadhaar cards.
A senior official told PTI that this change is being made to protect privacy and prevent potential misuse of Aadhaar data, which could also violate Aadhaar laws.
The UIDAI has already approved the new regulations, and these will soon be notified. Under the new rule, any organisation wishing to conduct offline Aadhaar verification must register with UIDAI and use digital verification methods.
Details of the New System
UIDAI chief Bhuvanesh Kumar explained that institutions will now need to use a secure application programming interface (API) for verification. This means no physical Aadhaar cards will be required at hotels, event venues, or other locations. The shift aims to reduce the risk of data misuse and promote paperless verification.
Introducing UIDAI’s New App
UIDAI is currently beta-testing a new app that will facilitate Aadhaar verification via an offline, app-to-app method. The app’s standout feature is that it won’t require a constant connection to central servers, allowing seamless Aadhaar checks even in areas with network issues, such as airports, retail outlets, and event venues.
The app will also enable users to update their addresses and link family members who may not have mobile numbers.
Key Benefits of the New System
One significant advantage is that it eliminates the problems caused by server downtime, which often disrupts Aadhaar verification. With app-based offline verification, these issues are resolved, ensuring smooth and continuous verification.
UIDAI states that this new model will strengthen user privacy and eliminate the risks associated with paper copies. It aligns with the upcoming Digital Personal Data Protection Act, set to be implemented within the next 18 months.