While the government highlights the availability of Rs 9,330 crore in inoperative accounts, the reality for many workers is that the claim process remains unnecessarily difficult. Critics argue that the reliance on digital portals assumes a level of technological proficiency that many blue-collar workers may not possess. For those who have left the formal workforce or lack consistent internet access, navigating the EPFO portal can be a daunting and frustrating experience.
One of the primary concerns is the high rate of claim rejections due to minor discrepancies in KYC data. Even a slight mismatch between an old company's records and current Aadhaar details can stall a claim for months. This creates a significant barrier for workers who may have moved cities or lost contact with former employers, making it nearly impossible to rectify data errors without significant outside help. The burden of proof is placed entirely on the worker, rather than the institution that holds the funds.
Furthermore, the lack of proactive outreach by the EPFO is a point of contention. While the funds are technically available, the organization does little to notify individuals that they have unclaimed balances. Many workers are unaware that their old accounts are even considered inoperative until they attempt to withdraw funds years later. This passive approach effectively keeps billions of rupees in the system, which could otherwise be supporting families during times of financial need.
There is also a concern regarding the transparency of how these inoperative funds are utilized while they sit unclaimed. Without clear communication about the status of these accounts, the public is left to wonder if the system is designed to facilitate easy access or to retain capital within the organization. To truly serve the workforce, the EPFO needs to simplify the verification process and provide more human-centric support for those who struggle with the digital-only mandate.