The Supreme Court on Monday (March 26) accepted a PIL filed in connection with deaths resulting from non-linking of public distribution system (PDS) with Aadhaar.

The PIL seeks investigation into the deaths occurring due to non-linking of ration cards with Aadhaar and also compensation for the family members of the deceased.

It has been alleged in the PIL that 30 deaths have so far happened due to non-availability of rations under the public distribution system in states such as Jharkhand, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

The apex court is already hearing a batch of petitions challenging Aadhaar linkages with bank accounts, mobiles etc and has put on hold the linkages until the case is decided. This linkage relief, however, is not available to benefits such as public distribution systems, domestic gas etc.

The Centre has mandated Aadhaar linkages for the availing of various social welfare schemes but the move has created uproar among the citizens. It has been hailed a draconian move by infringing one’s Right to Privacy.

—India Legal Bureau