Madhya Pradesh High Court Directs UIDAI to Aid in Tracing Missing Persons Through Aadhar Linkage
Landmark Decision Enhances Investigation Process by Leveraging Aadhar-Related Transactions
In a significant ruling, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to assist in the investigation of missing persons by verifying Aadhar number usage for online transactions, SIM card issuance, and bank account openings. The decision came as part of proceedings in the case of Shri Sitaram Barman vs. State of Madhya Pradesh, with the court aiming to leverage technological advancements to aid law enforcement.
Presided over by Chief Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva and Justice Dwarka Dhish Bansal, the court underscored the pivotal role Aadhar can play in tracing individuals, given its unique linkage to biometric data. During the hearings, counsel for the State acknowledged the efforts made to trace the missing person by checking possible Aadhar linkages. However, they were hindered by the Aadhar Seva Kendra's inability to provide such verification, citing a lack of existing provisions.
Recognizing the potential of Aadhar in providing crucial leads, the court deemed it "expedient" to involve UIDAI, directing them to verify whether the Aadhar number of the missing individual has been associated with any transactions that could indicate their whereabouts. This directive is expected to enhance the investigation process significantly, offering new avenues to trace missing individuals.
The court's directive was promptly accepted by the Union of India's counsel, who represented UIDAI. The authority is now tasked with examining the usage of the Aadhar number 395529494536, specifically looking for transactions related to online activities, SIM card issuance, or bank account operations.
Upon obtaining the relevant information, the investigating officer is instructed to proceed with necessary actions to locate the missing person, potentially revolutionizing traditional investigation methods. The court has scheduled the next hearing for November 11, 2025, to review progress and further actions.
This judgment marks a progressive step in integrating technology with law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of Aadhar in ensuring effective governance and security. By directing UIDAI to collaborate actively in such sensitive investigations, the court has highlighted the need for government agencies to adapt to technological capabilities for improved public safety.
Bottom Line:
Court issues directions to the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to verify if the Aadhar number of a missing person has been used for any online transactions, issuance of SIM cards, or opening of bank accounts to aid in tracing the individual.
Statutory provision(s): Aadhar Act, Criminal Procedure Code (pertaining to investigation processes)
