Govt directs telcos to stop use of Aadhaar-based electronic KYC

The government ordered telecom companies to stop using Aadhaar for electronic verification of existing mobile phone customers as well as for issuing new connections to comply with a recent Supreme Court order.

The apex court had last month in its  verdict restricted the use of Aadhaar by private entities in the absence of a legal provision.

To comply with the



order, the Department of Telecom (DoT) has issued detailed instructions to telecom companies on stopping the use of Aadhaar-based electronic-know your customer (e-KYC) and report compliance by 5th of November.  

The DoT, also permitted the use of physical Aadhaar card for giving new connections, provided the customer voluntarily offers it.