HEADLINE : Denied by an Algorithm: Mandatory Facial Recognition Leaves Rajasthan Pensioners Stranded
Jaipur: A digital governance initiative meant to curb corruption is reportedly causing a humanitarian crisis for the elderly in Rajasthan. A report released today highlights that thousands of social security pensioners—including widows, the elderly, and the disabled—are being denied their monthly stipend due to failures in the Facial Authentication App.
The Tech Glitch:
The government made facial recognition mandatory to verify beneficiaries. However, biological factors associated with aging—such as cataracts, wrinkles, and changing facial structures—are causing the app to reject genuine beneficiaries.
The Human Cost:
With the app showing “No Match,” pensions are automatically halted. In rural areas with poor internet connectivity and lack of smartphones, the problem is compounded. Activists are demanding an immediate return to physical verification or a manual override option, arguing that technology cannot become a barrier to the Right to Life for the most vulnerable sections of society.
