Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has clarified that the use of or access to Aadhaar biometric data for criminal investigation is not permissible under Aadhaar Act.

The authority was referring to reports published in certain section of media about purported use of Aadhaar biometric data for the purpose of crime investigation.

The UIDAI said, the biometrics data collected by the authority can be used only for the purpose of generating Aadhaar and for authentication of identity of Aadhaar holders and cannot be used for any other purpose.

It however said that certain section of the Act allows a very limited exception and permits use of or access to Aadhaar biometric data in cases involving national security. It said, UIDAI has never shared any biometric data with any crime investigating agency.