The Centre on Wednesday allowed the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to perform Aadhaar-based authentication to verify candidates’ identity voluntarily, both at the time of registration and during various stages of examinations and recruitment.

In pursuance of sub-clause (ii) of clause (b) of sub-section (4) of section 4 of the Aadhaar, (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, (as amended) read with rule 5 of the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Rules, 2020, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Personnel and Training, having been authorized by the Central Government, hereby notifies that the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is allowed to perform Aadhaar authentication, on voluntary basis, for verification of identity of candidates at the time of registration on ‘One Time Registration’ portal and various stages of examination/recruitment test, using Yes/No or/and e-KYC authentication facility,” the Ministry of personnel, Public Grievanves and Pensions stated in the notice.

“Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) shall adhere to all provisions of the Act, the rules and regulations made there-under, and directions issued by the ‘Unique Identification Authority of India’,” it stated.

In July, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) cancelled the provisional candidature of IAS officer Puja Khedkar and permanently debarred her from all future exams and selections.

Earlier on August 12, the Delhi High Court issued notices to the Delhi Police and the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) regarding the anticipatory bail plea of suspended IAS officer Puja Khedkar.

Khedkar approached the Delhi High Court challenging a district court’s decision that denied her bail. The FIR alleges that she falsified her identity to gain additional attempts in the civil services exam. (ANI)