By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 29: The Awaken India Movement (AIM), Meghalaya state unit, will hold a public meeting on April 7 near Shillong Civil Hospital to protest against the government’s insistence on Aadhaar card seeding for availing various government benefits. This was informed by Meghalaya Awaken Concern Citizens (MACC) president, Banshai Marbaniang.
Speaking to media persons, Marbaniang asserted that, under human rights principles, government cannot force individuals to obtain an Aadhaar card by threatening to withhold benefits. He highlighted instances where people were being compelled to acquire Aadhaar in many areas where there was deprivation of ration, welfare schemes and essential services.
Clarifying the movement’s stance, Marbaniang stated that AIM does not oppose the Aadhaar system itself but stands for citizens’ freedom of choice.
Marbaniang also raised concerns about schools refusing scholarships and denying admissions due to students lacking Aadhaar cards.
Additionally, he pointed out that many villagers from poor families are being deprived of ration and essential food supplies simply because they do not possess an Aadhaar card.