AIM Rally Sparks Debate Over Mandatory Aadhaar Linking in Meghalaya

A rally by Awaken India Movement (AIM) in Shillong protested forced Aadhaar-linking for welfare schemes. AIM leader Banshai Marbaniang stressed opposition to compulsion, not Aadhaar itself. Minor scuffles occurred as members tried marching to the Secretariat. A memorandum was submitted to officials. MLA Adelbert Nongrum supported voluntary Aadhaar enrollment. Critics claim poor citizens face denial of food and education due to lack of Aadhaar. The state government blamed the Centre, citing mandatory Aadhaar for central schemes. Rights groups condemned police action at the peaceful protest, calling it a violation of constitutional rights.