Residents of Ponda voiced their frustration over the recurring deadlines and procedures for Aadhaar linking, likening the experience to an intrusion into their privacy.
In recent months, queues and rush were observed at various centres for the PAN Aadhaar Link. Presently, long queues under the scorching sun have emerged outside multiple gas agencies in Ponda. Consumers have been notified to complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) procedure with these agencies by submitting their documents, including Aadhaar cards and identity/address proofs, before the looming deadline of 31 December.
Expressing exasperation, Ponda residents conveyed their fatigue with the constant imposition of deadlines and procedures, feeling encroached upon. A senior citizen, battling the heat while standing in line, highlighted the discomfort, even resorting to wearing a helmet for protection.
Social worker Virai Sapre criticized the government for instilling panic by issuing such deadlines. “Citizens, especially seniors, shouldn't endure the sun's intensity for mandatory procedures,” he questioned accountability if any adverse incidents occurred due to the enforced queues, advocating for a more considerate approach from the authorities.
Contrary to the given deadline, Sahdev Shetye, the owner of Bharat Gas Agency near Ponda Municipality, refuted the notion, stating that no such deadline had been provided. He assured residents that linking their Aadhaar cards could be done at any time, even via the Hello BPCL app for online convenience. Shetye emphasized, the flexibility available to consumers and highlighted the absence of any mandated cutoff date for the process.