e-Aadhaar valid document for new mobile connections: DoT

DoT's clarification would make it more convenient for such prospective customers to apply for new connections who have not received the hard copies of Aadhaar

The e-Aadhaar letter or the downloaded version of the card from the UIDAI website, can now be used as a valid identity and address proof document for taking a new mobile connection.

This has been clarified by the Department of Telecom which has also placed the onus of verifying the details mentioned in the e-Aadhaar letter - including name, address, date of birth, gender - from the UIDAI, on the representative manning the point of sale.

The authorised person at the shop will also have to record a declaration saying that the customer details mentioned in the e-Aadhaar letter have been matched with the details received from the UIDAI.

Earlier this year, in a representation to the DoT, COAI Director General Rajan Mathews and AUSPI Secretary General, Ashok Sud had made a case for acceptance of e-Aadhaar as a valid document for issuance of mobile connection.

"It is amply clear that there is no difference in the hard copy of Aadhaar received through Speed Post and the e-Aadhaar taken from the UIDAI website. Therefore, we request your kind intervention to issue requisite instructions and inform...That e-Aadhaar is acceptable," the two industry bodies had said.

At present, there are many applicants who have not yet received the hard copy of their Aadhaar cards through Speed Post, although they may have the electronic copy of their Aadhaar card available through the UIDAI website. DoT's clarification would make it more convenient for such prospective customers to apply for new connections.