In a recent development, the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced a crucial change regarding the acceptance of Aadhaar card as a valid proof for date of birth. This decision, outlined in circular No: WSU/2024/1/UIDAI Matter/4090, has been approved by the Central Provident Fund Commissioner (CPFC), bringing about a shift in the documentation process for EPFO beneficiaries.
UIDAI Directive and Aadhaar’s Status
EPFO’s decision aligns with a directive from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), stated in Circular No. 08 of 2023. The UIDAI emphasized that Aadhaar, while serving as a unique identifier, is not recognized as proof of date of birth according to the Aadhaar Act, 2016. The focus of Aadhaar, as per UIDAI, remains on being a proof of identity rather than a proof of birth.
Impact on EPFO’s Documentation Process
The circular issued by EPFO indicates the removal of Aadhaar from the list of acceptable documents for correcting date of birth. This modification specifically pertains to Table-B of Annexure-1 of the Joint Declaration SOP issued earlier. To align with the updated guidelines, EPFO’s Internal System Division (ISD) will implement necessary changes in the application software.
Widespread Implementation and Recent Court Judgments
All zonal and regional offices of EPFO have been directed to ensure the widespread implementation of the latest guidelines. Notably, recent court judgments, including one from the Bombay High Court, have emphasized that Aadhaar cannot be considered as proof of date of birth.
Accepted Documents for Date of Birth Correction
EPFO has provided a list of documents that will be considered valid for proof of date of birth. These include:
- Birth Certificate issued by the Registrar of Births and Deaths
- Marksheet issued by any recognized Government Board or University
- School Leaving Certificate (SLC)/ School Transfer Certificate (TC)/ SSC certificate containing Name and Date of Birth
- Certificate based on the service records
- PAN card
- Central/ State Pension Payment Order
- Domicile Certificate issued by the Government
- Medical certificate issued by Civil Surgeon after examining the member medically and supported with an affidavit on oath by the member duly authenticated by a competent court.
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