Seek relief in SC, K'taka HC tells petitioners challenging Aadhaar contracts to foreign firms
Bengaluru, Oct 20: The Karnataka High Court on Thursday directed a petitioner to seek relief against his challenge to the Aadhaar infrastructure contracts being issued to foreign companies.
Since the petitioner, Colonel (retired) Mathew Thomas had already approached the Supreme Court earlier regarding privacy concerns of Aadhaar, the HC division bench of Chief Justice Prasanna B Varale and Justice Ashok N Kinagi said it would be proper for him to place this issue before the apex court.
The HC, however, said that the doors of the HC were open if the Supreme Court directed him to seek relief from it.
The petitioner had claimed that four foreign entities were entrusted with collecting data and biometrics for Aadhaar.
Senior advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing through video conference to argue the case, submitted information regarding Indian citizens being entrusted to foreign entities, and said that since Aadhaar is linked to phone numbers and bank accounts, this information in the hands of foreign entities would adversely affect national security interests.
He also contended that the High Court has the jurisdiction to hear the issue just like the Supreme Court.
The High Court, however, disposed of the petition suggesting that they approach the Supreme Court as the petitioner had earlier filed a petition in the apex court regarding privacy issues of Aadhaar.
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Dharwad Corporation zonal offices raided after complaints of corruption in issuing land records
Hubballi: Karnataka Lokayukta officials on Friday conducted raids at multiple zonal offices of the Hubballi-Dharwad City Corporation following complaints alleging bribery and delay in issuing land-related documents, including e-Swathu records.
The raids were carried out in the morning under the leadership of Siddalingappa S.T.. Separate teams inspected 12 zonal offices of the Corporation and examined records linked to land ownership and document processing.
According to sources, the Lokayukta received complaints from members of the public alleging that Corporation officials were demanding bribes for issuing e-Swathu and other land documents.
Residents reportedly alleged that applications were being deliberately delayed if bribes were not paid.
Based on these complaints, officials carried out inspections of files and records connected to land ownership and issuance of documents.
Further investigation is underway.
