UIDAI Introduces Amendments to Aadhaar (Payment of Fees) Regulations, 2024

Key Takeaways:

1. Fee Structure Amendment: The introduction of sub-regulation (4) specifies a fee of five rupees for every update regarding the status of Aadhaar numbers, subject to revision every twenty-four months based on the Consumer Price Index. The Authority retains the discretion to waive the fee in certain cases.

2. Inclusive Nature of Fee: The fee is inclusive of applicable taxes and is subject to periodic revision, with the Authority having the discretion to defer the revision through notification.

3. Delegation of Powers: A new regulation (5) empowers Members, officers, or other delegated persons to perform acts or things related to delegated powers or functions under section 51 of the Aadhaar Act. The Authority reserves the right to determine the legitimacy of acts or things done under delegated powers.

Synopsis:

Introduction

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has recently introduced amendments to the Aadhaar (Payment of Fees for Performance of Authentication) Regulations, 2023, through the Aadhaar (Payment of Fees) Amendment Regulations, 2024. These changes have significant implications for entities involved in Aadhaar authentication processes.

Detailed Analysis

The amendments primarily focus on regulation 3 of the principal regulations. Sub-regulation (4) has been introduced, specifying that a fee of five rupees shall be charged to a requesting entity for every update regarding the status of Aadhaar numbers, particularly in cases of omission, deactivation, or reactivation. This fee is subject to revision every twenty-four months based on the Consumer Price Index, inclusive of taxes. However, the Authority retains the discretion to waive the fee in certain cases in the interest of its functions and powers. Sub-regulation (5) details the inclusive nature of the fee, its periodic revision, and the Authority’s authority to defer the revision through notification. Furthermore, a new regulation (5) has been added, empowering Members, officers, or other delegated persons to perform acts or things related to delegated powers or functions under section 51 of the Aadhaar Act. The Authority reserves the right to determine the legitimacy of acts or things done under delegated powers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Aadhaar (Payment of Fees) Amendment Regulations, 2024, bring noteworthy changes to the authentication fee structure and procedures. Entities engaged in Aadhaar authentication processes must take cognizance of the new fee implications and procedural details outlined in the amendments. The delegation of powers to Members, officers, or designated persons adds flexibility to the execution of related acts or things. It is crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about these regulatory changes to ensure compliance and effective engagement with the Aadhaar authentication framework. The amendments mark a step forward in streamlining processes and adapting to evolving needs in the realm of digital identity management.

Unique Identification Authority of India Notification

Date: 31st January, 2024

Regulation Title: Aadhaar (Payment of Fees for Performance of Authentication) Amendment Regulations, 2024

Short Title and Commencement: The regulations may be called the Aadhaar (Payment of Fees for Performance of Authentication) Amendment Regulations, 2024 and shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette.

FAQ:

Q1: What are the primary changes introduced in the Aadhaar (Payment of Fees) Amendment Regulations, 2024?

A1: The amendments primarily focus on the fee structure for Aadhaar authentication processes, introducing a fee for updates regarding the status of Aadhaar numbers and delegating powers to designated individuals.

Q2: How often will the fee for updates regarding the status of Aadhaar numbers be revised?

A2: The fee will be revised every twenty-four months based on the Consumer Price Index, with the Authority having the discretion to defer the revision through notification.

Q3: Can the fee for updates regarding the status of Aadhaar numbers be waived?

A3: Yes, the Authority retains the discretion to waive the fee in certain cases where it is in the interest of its functions and powers.