The Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled that it is not mandatory for a citizen to obtain an Aadhaar card for availing social security benefits, except for getting subsidy in LPG, kerosene and public distribution system.
Giving this interim order, a three-judge bench comprising Justices J. Chelameswar, S.A. Bode and C. Nagappan directed the Union of India to give wide publicity in the electronic and print media, including radio and television networks, that it is not mandatory for a citizen to obtain an Aadhaar card.
It said, “The production of an Aadhaar card will not be condition for obtaining any benefits otherwise due to a citizen; the Unique Identification Number or the Aadhaar card will not be used by the authorities for any purpose other than the PDS Scheme and in particular for the purpose of distribution of foodgrains, etc. and cooking fuel, such as kerosene. The Aadhaar card may also be used for the purpose of the LPG Distribution Scheme.”
It made it clear that the information about an individual obtained by the Unique Identification Authority of India while issuing an Aadhaar card shall not be used for any other purpose, save as above, except as may be directed by a Court for the purpose of criminal investigation.
Earlier, soon after the matter was referred to a larger bench, counsel for the petitioners insisted that the court should restrain the authorities from proceeding further in the collection of information and issuance of Aadhaar card to the rest of the citizens.
Attorney-General Mukul Rohatgi opposed any restraint order and assured the court that the authorities will not share any personal information of an Aadhaar card holder through biometrics or otherwise with any other person or authority.
He said that the Aadhaar card is of great benefit since it ensures an effective implementation of several social benefit schemes.
