Meghalaya HC Allows Continued Use of Alternative IDs Instead of Aadhaar

Meghalaya High Court Extends Use of Alternative IDs Pending Aadhaar Issuance

The Meghalaya High Court has reaffirmed its earlier directive that allows applicants awaiting Aadhaar cards to use alternative identification documents for official purposes until they receive their Aadhaar. The decision, delivered on Saturday, came from a division bench comprising Chief Justice Indra Prasanna Mukerji and Justice Wanlura Diengdoh. The bench emphasized that this interim protection remains valid for individuals who have already applied for Aadhaar but are yet to obtain their cards.

In its clarification, the court stated that the interim order dated 21st July, 2025, would continue to be effective. This order requires authorities across the state to accept valid alternative identification documents in lieu of Aadhaar cards until such time as the cards are officially issued to the applicants. The bench underscored that this directive is particularly significant for those caught in the waiting period after application submission, ensuring they do not face unnecessary hardships in accessing essential services, entitlements, or other official procedures that demand identity verification.

The ruling arose while the bench was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by social activist Greneth M. Sangma. Sangma’s petition sought to safeguard the rights of individuals who often face difficulties due to the delay in Aadhaar issuance. The petitioner argued that many citizens, particularly in rural and remote areas of Meghalaya, are left in a vulnerable position when Aadhaar becomes the sole accepted form of identity. In such situations, delays or procedural hurdles in obtaining the Aadhaar card effectively deny them access to government schemes, banking services, education, and healthcare. The PIL, therefore, pressed the court to ensure that the use of alternative identity proofs be allowed without discrimination until the Aadhaar card is physically delivered to the applicant.

Interestingly, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), which is the statutory body responsible for issuing Aadhaar, took a firm stance against the petition. The UIDAI submitted an affidavit opposing the PIL even before the court formally sought its response. This proactive move by the UIDAI reflects its position that Aadhaar should ideally remain the primary and universal identity document. However, the High Court’s directive highlighted the need for flexibility in real-world situations, especially when bureaucratic delays or systemic bottlenecks leave individuals in limbo.

The court observed that while Aadhaar has become an important tool for governance, social welfare delivery, and identity verification, it cannot become a reason for exclusion. The order balances the intent of Aadhaar as a unique identity system with the immediate necessity of ensuring that citizens are not deprived of their rights due to administrative or technical delays.

By extending the protection of alternative identification documents, the Meghalaya High Court has provided crucial relief to applicants waiting for their Aadhaar cards. The interim order essentially ensures continuity of access to services and prevents situations where people are denied entitlements simply because their Aadhaar cards are pending.

The matter has not been concluded yet. The High Court has scheduled the next hearing for September 17, 2025, where further deliberations are expected, possibly including arguments from the UIDAI and responses from the petitioner. Until then, the interim order remains in effect, offering a much-needed safeguard for Aadhaar applicants across Meghalaya.