Centre’s Digi Yatra Enrolment Commences Amidst Concerns Over Consent Issues
New Delhi, January 5, 2024: The Centre’s Digi Yatra enrolment has kicked off amidst a storm of controversy as reports emerge of airport security staff allegedly signing up flyers for the initiative without obtaining their consent. Digi Yatra, introduced to digitize and streamline passenger processing, has faced backlash as passengers express concerns over privacy infringement.
Under the Digi Yatra initiative, passengers are required to scan their boarding passes and faces at the initial entry point, creating a single biometric face token. This token is intended to facilitate subsequent checkpoints, allowing passengers to navigate the airport with only a face scan. The initiative aims to offer a paperless and seamless travel experience.
However, recent social media posts by air travelers have brought attention to what they perceive as an unwarranted intrusion into their privacy. Many flyers claim that security personnel and private staff at entry gates have been collecting facial biometrics without proper knowledge or explicit consent.
The Digi Yatra Foundation CEO acknowledged the concerns raised by passengers but insisted that the initiative remains voluntary. The CEO stated that the foundation is actively promoting the app through one-time sign-ups, emphasizing the benefits of digital processing for passengers.
The controversy arises as year-end travel reached its peak, with passengers taking to social media platforms to express shock and anger over the alleged infringement of their privacy. Digi Yatra, initially introduced as a voluntary program in December 2022, has been positioned as a technology-driven solution to enhance the efficiency of airport processes.
Despite the Digi Yatra Foundation’s assurance of the voluntary nature of the program, questions are being raised about the transparency of the enrolment process. Some passengers argue that they were enrolled without being adequately informed, sparking a debate on the balance between technological advancements and individual privacy rights.
Privacy advocates stress the importance of obtaining explicit consent from passengers before collecting their biometric data. As Digi Yatra continues to be promoted across airports, ensuring transparent communication and addressing privacy concerns will be crucial to its success.
The controversy sheds light on the challenges associated with implementing digital initiatives in the travel industry, highlighting the need for a delicate balance between technological convenience and individual privacy safeguards. As passengers voice their concerns, the future trajectory of Digi Yatra’s enrolment strategy will likely be influenced by the ongoing debate surrounding privacy and consent.
'Digi Yatra Is Absolutely Safe'@szarabi @DigiYatraOffice #DigiYatraRules #DigitalIndia #AviationMinistry #BusinessNews pic.twitter.com/nh05zw9EtA
— Business Today (@business_today) January 4, 2024
