Government clarifies Misconceptions about Digital Identity Cards Issuance

Speaking at a media briefing yesterday ( January 14), the Deputy Minister explained that all new National Identity Cards (NICs) will be converted to a digital format to reduce delays in processing. The initiative, estimated to cost Rs. 20 billion, will receive 50% funding assistance from India.

Addressing concerns, Weeraratne clarified that biometric data, including fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris recognition, will remain exclusively under Sri Lankan control. He emphasized that under the amended agreement by the NPP government, the Indian company involved will only provide technical support, with no access to biometric data.

Weeraratne also urged the public not to be misled by politically motivated claims regarding the ENIC initiative.