The Facts
The Indian government's decision to introduce a unique eight-digit family identity card for residents in Jammu and Kashmir (JK) has sparked surveillance and privacy concerns in the disputed Himalayan region.
The implementation of a unique alpha-numeric code — called JK Family ID — is reportedly aimed at creating a transparent database of JK families, which will have information on births, deaths, and marriages of eligible beneficiaries.
The Spin
Narrative A
The sole purpose of allotting JK Family IDs is to allow the needy to receive welfare benefits unhindered. To thwart threats and secure sensitive and essential data, the state government will develop an information security policy per all applicable laws and rules on data protection. By doubting the government's intentions, political parties are blocking the region's prosperity and fanning communal hatred.
Narrative B
This exercise is not only a waste of time and resources but also an intrusive policy under the guise of promoting the effective deliverance of existing benefits. By creating a personal database of all JK families, the Indian government just wants to keep a watch on Kashmiris. However, the move will backfire as it will deepen the suspicion against the Indian government in Jammu and Kashmir.