Saying NO To Biometrics

Abstract

This paper has been prepared to challenge the MNIS (Mauritius National Identity Scheme) in Mauritius. In the UK, the biometric national ID scheme was junked in 2010. Should Mauritius learn from the UK? A number of courts' decisions with respect to biometric data schemes have been analysed in depth. The dangers and risks of biometric technologies have been exposed. Even if the so called judgemental interferences of biometric technologies especially biometric IDs and databases with the human life (in the presence of adequate legal safeguards) could exceptionally be justified legally, there are ethical and social ramifications which illustrate that this is also an intrusion on human rights and should not be permissible at all.