Bill proposing voluntary use of Aadhaar as ID proof tabled in

A bill to allow voluntary use of Aadhaar as an identity proof for opening bank accounts and procuring mobile phone connections was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday amid opposition.

The Bill will amend the Aadhaar Act 2016 and replace an ordinance issued in March.

It also proposes stiff penalties for violation of norms.

Opposing the bill, RSP MP NK Premchandaran said it was a "grave violation" of the Supreme Court's judgement on Aaadhar.

He claimed private entities can get hold of Aadhaar data and violate fundamental rights especially the Right of Privacy.

Responding to him, Union Information and Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said Aadhaar is a valid law, it is in national interest and doesn't violate privacy.

He said so far more than 60 crore people have taken mobile sim cards through Aadhaar and now it is not mandatory.

Suggesting the bill is in line with the apex court judgement, Prasad said people of India have accepted Aadhaar.

The bill proposes to allow ..