UIDAI’s Aadhaar redesign proposal triggers privacy–practicality debate

India’s unique ID system may soon undergo a significant change, with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) reportedly planning to redesign the physical Aadhaar card. The proposed format would display only the holder’s photograph and a secure QR code, removing printed details such as name, address, and the 12-digit Aadhaar number.

Officials say the move aims to strengthen privacy and reduce misuse of personal data. Under the proposal, sensitive information would be encrypted within the QR code, accessible only to authorized officials or verified digital applications. By limiting visible data, UIDAI hopes to discourage the routine sharing of photocopies, which many citizens submit to hotels, banks, shops, and public offices.

The proposal has sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms including X, Reddit, and Instagram. Many users welcomed the idea, calling it a long-overdue step toward better data protection. Several posts reflected concerns about identity theft and unauthorized storage of Aadhaar copies, suggesting that a QR-based system could reduce casual data harvesting.

However, others questioned the practicality of the redesign. Critics pointed out that QR verification depends on smartphones, scanners, and reliable internet connectivity — resources that may not always be available in rural areas or small establishments. Some users asked how identity checks would work in fully offline settings.

Digital identity experts note that while removing visible information may reduce everyday misuse, it does not fully address risks such as database breaches. They stress that QR-based authentication must be supported by strong backend security and strict enforcement against unauthorized data collection.

UIDAI has already introduced secure QR features and is developing mobile tools to enable safer Aadhaar verification, signaling a broader push toward privacy-focused digital identity management.