Aadhaar has become an integral part of life in India. From opening a bank account to availing government subsidies, this 12-digit unique identity number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) touches almost every citizen’s daily life. Despite its widespread use, there are still many misconceptions surrounding the Aadhaar law. Let’s debunk some common myths and understand the facts.

Myth 1: Aadhaar is Mandatory for All Services

Fact: While Aadhaar is widely used for services like subsidies, pensions, and digital KYC, it is not mandatory for every service. The Supreme Court of India, in its 2018 judgment, clarified that Aadhaar is mandatory only for certain welfare schemes and for filing income tax returns. Private companies cannot insist on Aadhaar for services like mobile connections or bank accounts if there are alternate KYC methods available.

Example: A person can still open a bank account using PAN and other identity proofs if they do not have Aadhaar.

Myth 2: Aadhaar Violates Privacy Rights

Fact: Privacy concerns around Aadhaar are valid, but the Supreme Court has upheld its constitutionality while emphasizing strict data protection measures. UIDAI has implemented safeguards like limited authentication, encryption, and secure storage. Moreover, Aadhaar numbers are not meant to be public; sharing them is voluntary for non-mandatory services.

Tip: Always avoid sharing your Aadhaar number publicly or with unverified websites.

Myth 3: Biometric Data Can Be Misused Easily

Fact: Aadhaar uses biometric authentication (fingerprints and iris scans), but the system is designed to prevent misuse. UIDAI stores this data in encrypted format, and authentication does not reveal the actual biometric; it only verifies if it matches the stored record.

Real-life Example: During COVID-19, government welfare schemes used Aadhaar authentication for direct benefit transfers securely without exposing personal data.

Myth 4: Aadhaar Can Be Hacked Easily

Fact: While no system is entirely hack-proof, UIDAI employs multiple layers of security. The database has been subjected to continuous security audits, and large-scale hacking has not been reported. Most security risks come from sharing your Aadhaar number or OTP with unknown sources, not from the UIDAI system itself.

Tip: Never share your OTP or personal details received during Aadhaar authentication.

Myth 5: Linking Aadhaar is Optional Everywhere

Fact: Linking Aadhaar is optional in private services but mandatory in certain government schemes, such as subsidy transfers under LPG, pensions, and scholarships. Failing to link Aadhaar in these schemes can result in delays or denial of benefits.

Example: If your LPG subsidy is not linked to Aadhaar, the benefit cannot be credited to your account until you update it.

Myth 6: Aadhaar Can Be Used for Tracking You Everywhere

Fact: Aadhaar cannot be used to track your location. The system only verifies identity when authentication is requested. There is no GPS tracking linked to Aadhaar usage.

Example: Using Aadhaar to withdraw money via biometric authentication at a bank does not reveal your location to UIDAI or the government.

Myth 7: Children and Senior Citizens Cannot Get Aadhaar Easily

Fact: Children above 5 years and senior citizens can get Aadhaar. For minors, Aadhaar is issued with parental or guardian consent, and the biometric details are updated when the child turns 5 and 15. Senior citizens can enroll in Aadhaar with assistance if needed.

Common FAQs About Aadhaar

Q1. Can I cancel my Aadhaar?
A: No, Aadhaar once issued cannot be canceled, but you can update your details anytime.

Q2. What if my Aadhaar is misused?
A: Report to UIDAI immediately and file a police complaint. UIDAI provides an Aadhaar Lock/Unlock feature for security.

Q3. Can Aadhaar be used for online KYC?
A: Yes, Aadhaar e-KYC and OTP-based authentication allow secure online verification.

Q4. Is Aadhaar mandatory for filing ITR?
A: Yes, linking Aadhaar with PAN is mandatory for filing income tax returns.

Conclusion

Aadhaar is a powerful tool for identity verification and welfare distribution, but myths often create unnecessary fear among citizens. By understanding the facts behind these myths, you can use Aadhaar safely and responsibly. Remember: never share sensitive details, and always update your Aadhaar records to avoid complications.

Aadhaar is not just a number; it is a gateway to financial inclusion, social benefits, and a more transparent system—as long as it is used wisely.