EC: Aadhaar Number Not Mandatory for Linking with Electoral Roll

September 22, 2023

The Election Commission (EC) of India has clarified its stance regarding the use of Aadhaar numbers in the electoral roll. The EC informed the Supreme Court that individuals are not obligated to provide their Aadhaar numbers for linking with the electoral roll, and it is considering making necessary adjustments to the enrolment forms to reflect this.

Rule 26-B and Non-Mandatory Aadhaar

The issue revolves around Rule 26-B of the Registration of Electors (Amendment) Rules 2022, which pertains to the provision of Aadhaar numbers by existing electors. The EC emphasized that Rule 26-B does not make it mandatory for electors to submit their Aadhaar numbers.

The Plea

The case emerged from a plea seeking the Supreme Court to direct both the Centre and the EC to amend application forms for enrolment and updating of electoral rolls based on the amended provisions/rules regarding Aadhaar authentication. It was contended that making Aadhaar submission compulsory violated constitutional rights and privacy.

EC’s Response

In response to the plea, the EC stated that the submission of Aadhaar numbers is voluntary. This clarifying stance aims to uphold individual rights and privacy while allowing for optional Aadhaar linkage.

Supreme Court’s Order

In its September 18 order, the Supreme Court disposed of the plea and officially recorded the EC’s statement. The Court acknowledged that Rule 26-B does not enforce the mandatory submission of Aadhaar numbers. Additionally, the EC informed the Court of its intention to make necessary changes to the enrolment forms to ensure clarity regarding Aadhaar linkage.

Significant Aadhaar Numbers Uploaded

The EC shared that approximately 66.23 crore Aadhaar numbers had already been uploaded during the finalization of electoral rolls. This reflects the extensive use of Aadhaar in various government processes while respecting individual choices.

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