DELHI HIGH COURT QUESTIONS LPG AADHAAR RULE AS DISABILITY AND ACCESS CONCERNS SURFACE

October 1, 2026

The Delhi High Court has sought the Centre’s response to a petition challenging the mandatory biometric Aadhaar authentication requirement for domestic LPG consumers seeking refills at the regulated price from October 1.

A bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia observed that not every LPG consumer in the country necessarily has an Aadhaar card and directed the Centre to take instructions on the matter. The case has been listed for further hearing on October 5.

The petition was filed by lawyer Pulkit Luthra, who has a 75 per cent permanent visual disability. He has argued that the biometric authentication process, particularly iris scanning, can create serious difficulties for people with visual impairments.

The challenge concerns directions issued by the Petroleum Ministry to oil marketing companies, along with a subsequent public announcement outlining the authentication requirement. Under the framework, consumers who do not complete authentication can continue obtaining LPG at market prices without subsidy, subject to the applicable conditions.

The petitioner has argued that consumers who are unable to complete biometric authentication because of disability or other circumstances require an effective alternative mechanism. He has also questioned whether mandatory biometric authentication can lawfully be imposed as a condition for accessing subsidised domestic LPG.

The case brings questions of Aadhaar authentication, access to an essential household fuel and accommodation for persons with disabilities before the court. The Centre’s response and the proceedings scheduled for October 5 are expected to clarify the government's position on the contested requirement.