Pune: Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Medha Kulkarni Raises Aadhaar Authentication Issues In Parliament
Pune: Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Medha Kulkarni Raises Aadhaar Authentication Issues In Parliament
New Delhi, August 20, 2025: Highlighting the difficulties faced by citizens in Aadhaar authentication, MP Dr. Medha Vishram Kulkarni on Wednesday drew the government’s attention in the Rajya Sabha. She said that senior citizens, differently-abled persons, farmers, and rural laborers are particularly struggling with these problems. “Aadhaar should not become a barrier but rather a guiding tool for inclusive welfare,” she stressed.
Raising the issue under Special Mention, Dr. Kulkarni pointed out that many citizens face failed biometric verification due to worn-out fingerprints, retinal problems, physical disabilities, or chronic illnesses. As a result, they are deprived of essential services such as ration under the Public Distribution System, pensions for the elderly, healthcare benefits, and even banking facilities.
Although the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has provided alternative solutions such as ‘Exceptional Enrolment,’ facial recognition, and OTP-based authentication, these measures are not being effectively implemented on the ground. “Frontline staff are often unaware of these alternatives or unwilling to help,” she added.
Dr. Kulkarni suggested the following measures:
- Implement alternative Aadhaar authentication methods in mission mode.
- Ensure no citizen is denied welfare schemes due to biometric mismatches.
- Launch awareness campaigns and establish grievance redressal mechanisms.
- Appoint nodal officers in every district for speedy resolution of such issues.
