Delhi’s Directorate of Vigilance Implements Voluntary Aadhaar Authentication for Vigilance Complaint Information Management System (VCIMS) Portal

Key Takeaways:

1. Introduction of voluntary Aadhaar authentication for the VCIMS Portal by the Directorate of Vigilance in Delhi.

2. Grounded in Section 4(4)(b)(ii) of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, and the “Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Rules, 2020.”

3. Central Government’s authorization for Aadhaar authentication, subject to specific conditions including consent, exception handling, alternative identification methods, non-denial of service, data protection, secure storage, audit, and compliance.

4. Role of the National Informatics Centre (NIC) as the Authentication User Agency (AUA) and e-KYC User Agency (KUA).

5. Emphasis on transparency and accountability in public services through the implementation of Aadhaar authentication.

Synopsis:

The notification issued by the Directorate of Vigilance in Delhi on September 18, 2023, regarding the voluntary use of Aadhaar authentication for its Vigilance Complaint Information Management System (VCIMS) Portal marks a significant development in the integration of Aadhaar into government processes. This move has far-reaching implications for the identification of complainants, efficiency enhancement, and ensuring transparency in vigilance and anti-corruption efforts.

Background and Legal Framework

The notification is grounded in Section 4(4)(b)(ii) of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, which allows for voluntary Aadhaar authentication for specific purposes. This decision aligns with the interests of the state, aiming to streamline processes related to vigilance and anti-corruption activities. Additionally, the Government of India introduced the “Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Rules, 2020,” empowering state governments to seek permission to use Aadhaar authentication voluntarily. This rule set the stage for the Directorate of Vigilance to explore this avenue.

Authorization from Central Government

The Central Government, through an authorization letter dated June 22, 2023, granted permission to the Government of NCT of Delhi, Directorate of Vigilance, to implement Aadhaar authentication. This authorization is in line with Rule 5 of the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance Rules, 2020.

Conditions for Usage

The notification specifies several conditions that must be met during the implementation of Aadhaar authentication, including obtaining the informed consent of complainants, strict adherence to exception handling provisions, informing complainants about alternative identification methods, non-denial of service, data protection, secure storage, audit, and compliance.

Role of National Informatics Centre (NIC)

The National Informatics Centre (NIC) is designated as the Authentication User Agency (AUA) and e-KYC User Agency (KUA) for this purpose, while the Directorate of Vigilance serves as the Sub-AUA/Sub-KUA.

Transparency and Accountability

This move towards Aadhaar authentication in vigilance processes underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public services. By providing an alternative means of identification and adhering to strict rules, this initiative aims to enhance the overall effectiveness of vigilance and anti-corruption efforts.

In conclusion, the notification issued by the Directorate of Vigilance in Delhi represents a significant step in the integration of Aadhaar authentication into government processes. By offering complainants the option of Aadhaar-based identification while safeguarding their rights and data, this initiative seeks to streamline vigilance and anti-corruption procedures. It underscores the importance of aligning technology and governance for the benefit of citizens and the state. As this system is implemented, it will be essential to monitor its impact on efficiency, transparency, and the protection of individuals’ privacy rights.

FAQ

Q1: What is the purpose of the notification issued by the Directorate of Vigilance in Delhi?

A1: The notification introduces voluntary Aadhaar authentication for the Vigilance Complaint Information Management System (VCIMS) Portal, aiming to enhance the identification of complainants, improve efficiency, and ensure transparency in vigilance and anti-corruption efforts.

Q2: What legal framework does the notification align with?

A2: The notification is grounded in Section 4(4)(b)(ii) of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, and the “Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Rules, 2020.”

Q3: What are the conditions for the usage of Aadhaar authentication as per the notification?

A3: The conditions include obtaining the informed consent of complainants, strict adherence to exception handling provisions, informing complainants about alternative identification methods, non-denial of service, data protection, secure storage, audit, and compliance.

Q4: What is the role of the National Informatics Centre (NIC) in this context?

A4: NIC is designated as the Authentication User Agency (AUA) and e-KYC User Agency (KUA) for this purpose, while the Directorate of Vigilance serves as the Sub-AUA/Sub-KUA.

Q5: What is the significance of this move towards Aadhaar authentication in vigilance processes?

A5: This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public services, providing an alternative means of identification and adhering to strict rules to enhance the overall effectiveness of vigilance and anti-corruption efforts.