Will UK launch its own Aadhaar? PM Keir Starmer speaks to Infosys’ Nandan Nilekani | Details

Nilekani was a integral part of launch of Aadhaar as an identity back in 2009 in India. Presently, almost every individual in the country possesses this identity.

The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, met the co-founder of India’s Infosys, Nandan Nilekani. During the discussion, he sought guidance for the successful implementation of an Aadhaar-like system in the United Kingdom. 

Nilekani is a recognized personality in India, as he was involved in the launch of Aadhaar as an identity back in 2009 in India. Presently, almost every individual in the country possesses this identity. Starmer also mentioned, “I do think that we could gain a significant advantage. We’re going to a country, India, where they’ve already done ID and made a massive success of it. So one of the meetings I’ll be having is about ID, in relation to that”, while talking to journalists.

Why does Starmer want Aadhaar system in UK?

Many migrate to the United Kingdom every month and year. At this, Prime Minister Starmer said that the installation of an Aadhaar-like system will make it mandatory for migrants to present their digital identity. This will act as a valid proof of their right to work in the country. He also added, “It would be a good passport,” as people may not be able to move to the UK illegally.

Highlighting the complexity of cross-checking the IDs with several bills for simple processes, he stated, “I don’t know how many times the rest of you have had to look in the bottom drawer for three bills when you want to get your kids into school, or apply for this or apply for that.” He said that the implementation of the Aadhaar system could get them a great advantage.

What did Starmer say about India?

Before the discussion with Infosys co-founder, Keir Starmer acknowledged the ecosystem of India’s Aadhaar identity while speaking to journalists and mentioned, “We’re going to a country, India, where they’ve already done ID and made a massive success of it. So one of the meetings I’ll be having is about ID, in relation to that.”

In 2000, as per reports, the idea was rejected as people thought the process gave more control to the government over their whereabouts and data.