Supreme Court asks states to respond on Aadhaar validity
New Delhi – The Supreme Court has asked states to respond to petitions challenging the constitutional validity of Aadhaar cards, and it being made mandatory for enjoying the benefits of the government’s social welfare schemes.
The apex court was hearing a batch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of Aadhaar on the ground that it violates and transgresses the individual rights of citizens.
A bench led by Justice B. S. Chauhan sought the views of states’ to ascertain their understanding of the nature of the UID scheme and whether they have also linked Aadhaar cards to such services.
The court will take up the matter for further hearing on December 10.
The petitioners include Justice K Puttaswamy, former high court judge, seeking to restrain the Centre, Planning Commission and the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) from issuing Aadhaar cards by way of an executive order of January 28, 2009.
