What is the criticism of the government's Aadhaar-based system in MGNREGA payments

The criticism of the government's Aadhaar-based system in MGNREGA payments revolves around several concerns raised by the Congress party: 1. Exclusion: It is argued that linking MGNREGA payments to Aadhaar can lead to exclusion of marginalized groups who may face difficulties in enrolling or authenticating their biometric details, resulting in denial of rightful entitlements. This undermines the aim of MGNREGA to provide employment opportunities to the rural poor. 2. Technological challenges: Critics argue that the technical infrastructure required for Aadhaar authentication, such as internet connectivity and biometric devices, is not uniformly available across rural areas. This can create barriers and delays in accessing MGNREGA payments. 3. Privacy and data security: Concerns have been raised regarding the storage and misuse of Aadhaar-linked personal data. There are fears that the Aadhaar ecosystem may compromise individuals' privacy and expose them to potential security breaches. The implications of this criticism are significant as it questions the effectiveness and inclusivity of the Aadhaar-based system in delivering social welfare benefits. It highlights the need for a careful evaluation of its implementation and for addressing the concerns raised to ensure equal access to MGNREGA payments for all eligible beneficiaries.