Linking Voter IDs with Aadhaar: A Voluntary Initiative
Source: MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF LAW AND JUSTICE; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS; AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CULTURE (SHRI ARJUN RAM MEGHWAL)
By Khritish Swargiary The Government of India has taken a significant step toward establishing a more robust and secure electoral system by introducing the voluntary linking of Voter IDs with Aadhaar cards. This move is in line with the Election Laws (Amendment) Act, 2021, which allows Electoral Registration Officers to require existing or prospective electors to provide their Aadhaar numbers for the purpose of establishing identity on a voluntary basis. According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the linking of Aadhaar with Election Photo Identity Cards has not yet started. However, the commission has launched a program to collect Aadhaar numbers from existing and prospective electors on a voluntary basis across all states and union territories, effective from August 1, 2022. The ECI has clarified that it is entirely voluntary for electors to submit their Aadhaar numbers with their Voter IDs. Consent is obtained from the electors for Aadhaar in Form 6B. Currently, there is no provision regarding the deletion of Aadhaar details if a voter chooses to withdraw their consent. Addressing concerns about the potential misuse of voter data, the ECI has assured that it is responsible for maintaining the integrity and security of electoral data under Article 324 of the Constitution. The commission employs multi-layered security architecture, and the electoral data is encrypted both in static and transit modes. No Deletion from Voter Lists It is important to note that the names of voters whose Voter IDs have not been linked with Aadhaar will not be struck off from the voter lists. The government has not set any deadline for the same, ensuring that no voter is disenfranchised due to the lack of Aadhaar linking. The voluntary linking of Voter IDs with Aadhaar is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the security and accuracy of the electoral process in India. While the process is still in its initial stages, the ECI remains committed to protecting the privacy and rights of voters while ensuring the integrity of the electoral system.Voluntary Submission and Consent
Protecting Voter Data
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