NASHIK/PUNE: Maharashtra’s government has suspended the issuance of birth and death certificates for applications delayed by a year or more, citing the need for a “hygiene check” in the system. This decision comes amid allegations of illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants fraudulently acquiring such documents in parts of the state.
Senior revenue officials informed that the halt would remain in effect for at least six months across all districts. Former BJP MP Kirit Somaiya claimed that thousands of immigrants had obtained forged birth certificates, including 4,318 in Malegaon, 4,537 in Amravati, and over 15,000 in Akola. In response, the state home department has formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the allegations, with its report expected in six months.
A Nashik administration official revealed that the state government’s directive to divisional commissioners and district collectors highlighted multiple complaints about irregularities in approving delayed applications for birth and death certificates.
Change in Law Sparks Misuse Concerns
Until 2023, delayed applications required judicial approval. However, a central government amendment allowed district collectors and sub-divisional officers to approve such requests. This change reportedly led to system abuse, particularly in districts like Malegaon and Amravati, where thousands of fraudulent certificates are suspected to have been issued. Officials are now compiling data from all districts as part of the ongoing investigation.
Malegaon AIMIM MLA Mohammed Khaliq accused BJP’s Somaiya of maligning his constituency, suggesting political motives since BJP lost the Lok Sabha seat there. “What were the central and state home ministries, both run by BJP, doing when these individuals allegedly entered India?” he questioned.
In Pune district alone, 2,470 delayed birth certificates and 1,488 delayed death certificates are under review. Shirur has the highest number of delayed birth-certificate applications at 680, while Velhe leads in delayed death registrations. Officials continue to scrutinize these applications as part of the cleanup effort.
