Aadhaar Bill gets LS nod despite Oppn objections

The Lok Sabha on Friday passed the Aadhaar Bill, which is aimed at allowing the government to deliver financial benefits and subsidies to beneficiaries and cut pilferage of resources, despite objections from the Opposition.

The Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Bill 2016 was passed by the Lok Sabha amid Opposition’s allegations of a “conspiracy” to make the role of the Rajya Sabha “redundant” by classifying the legislation as a Money Bill.

Once a Money Bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha can only discuss it but cannot make amendments. If the Upper House fails to return a Money Bill within 14 days, it is deemed to have been passed.

At the outset, BJD leader Bhratruhari Mahtab flagged concerns over the Bill and demanded that the Bill be referred to a Standing Committee. He found instant support from Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and AIADMK leader P Venugopal. The Aadhaar Bill seeks to give statutory cover to the unique identity numbers that would be an entitlement of citizens to receive subsidies and benefits from the government.

Initiating the discussion on the Bill, Congress member Rajeev Satav pointed out that Aadhaar was an initiative conceived by the UPA government which was then roundly criticised by the BJP. He accused the BJP of doing a “U-turn” and trying to appropriate a UPA flagship as its own.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley interjected to state that the Congress can claim copyright on the Bill. “I am willing to give it to them. But do not delay the Bill,” Jaitley said.
Jaitley brushed aside Congress’ concerns saying that he was ready to correct the distortion if pointed out. Jaitley also sought to allay apprehensions voiced by the Opposition members about misuse of information gathered.