Energy department adds ‘opt-out’ option to the Gruha Jyothi form
The Karnataka Energy Department has introduced an 'opt-out' clause in the Gruha Jyothi verification form, allowing consumers to decline providing personal data. However, choosing this option results in the immediate discontinuation of electricity subsidy benefits.
Why it matters
Reflects the tension between government data collection requirements for welfare schemes and individual privacy concerns.
The Energy Department has made one more addition to the Gruha Jyothi door-to-door verification form. In Part 2, beneficiaries can choose not to provide details such as their Aadhaar card, voter ID, ration card, PAN card, caste details, mobile number and profession. However, if consumers refuse to provide these details, their Gruha Jyothi benefits will also be discontinued.
An official said, “When meter readers, wearing their ID cards, have been going door to door for verification, consumers have been reluctant to provide important details such as their Aadhaar card, voter ID and other information. Therefore, this clause has now been added to the form.”
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