Aadhaar uncertainty can’t go on, says judge

Aadhaar uncertainty can’t go on, says judge

Context:

• Justice D.Y. Chandrachud highlighted the prevailing uncertainty and dangers, especially in the banking and financial sectors, of waiting till the “last minute” to extend the March 31 deadline for Aadhaar linkage.

What is in news?

• Supreme Court: The Supreme Court expressed displeasure over banks, mobile phone companies and financial institutions continuing to force people to link their Aadhaar cards before March 31 for uninterrupted service, saying the delay in extending the deadline to link Aadhaar with government services will cause uncertainty.
• Centre: The Centre was not reluctant to extend the deadline but there was no such immediate requirement and advised the bench to see how the case progresses.
• Justice DY Chandrachud: Justice DY Chandrachud felt a delay will leave citizens confused.
• As the country is nearing the end of the financial year, there is uncertainty in banks, stock exchanges and financial markets because of the deadline.
• The judge made the observations after advocates complained that government authorities and institutions are still compelling people to link their Aadhaar cards for continuance of their services and urged the court to extend the deadline.