Archive · 21 Aug 2025
Assam Anganwadi Workers Protest Facial Recognition System
Assam's Anganwadi workers, who help distribute food to pregnant women, new mothers, and young children, are upset about a new system.
This system uses facial recognition and a one-time password (OTP) sent to a phone to prove who people are.
The workers say this is causing problems because many people don't have phones or can't get the OTP.
They also say it's making it harder to give food to those who need it.
The workers want the government to stop using this system and make it easier for people to get their food.
Assam Anganwadi workers protest new facial recognition and OTP system for ration distribution.
The Assam State Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Association (ASAWHA) submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister.
The new system requires beneficiaries to use facial recognition and OTP verification via Aadhaar.
Workers claim the system is impractical and excludes genuine beneficiaries.
ASAWHA demands immediate withdrawal of the FRS and reinstatement of beneficiaries.
- Who
- Assam State Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Association (ASAWHA)
- What
- Protest against facial recognition and OTP system for ration distribution.
- When
- August 21st
- Where
- Assam, India
- Why
- To oppose the new system which they claim excludes beneficiaries and is impractical.
Anganwadi Workers' Concerns
Government's Perspective
System Practicality
Anganwadi Workers' Concerns
The system is impractical due to lack of phone access in rural areas.
Government's Perspective
The government aims to streamline and secure ration distribution.
Beneficiary Access
Anganwadi Workers' Concerns
The system excludes many beneficiaries and prevents them from accessing rations.
Government's Perspective
The system aims to prevent fraud and ensure correct distribution.
- Protesting Group
- ASAWHA
- Protest Location
- Guwahati, Assam
- System protested
- Facial Recognition and OTP verification
- Beneficiaries
- Pregnant women, mothers, and children
- Demand
- Withdrawal of FRS