Is KMC Issuing Birth Certificates to Protect Suspects from SIR Exercise?
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Synopsis
In a shocking claim, Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in West Bengal, alleges that the KMC is distributing birth certificates to dubious individuals. This move is aimed at circumventing the Voter List removals during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. Can such practices undermine the democratic process?
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of illegal issuance of birth certificates by KMC.
- Potential manipulation of electoral rolls raised by opposition.
- Call for a thorough investigation by the Election Commission.
- Importance of birth certificates as legal documents for citizens.
- Highlighting the need for transparency in electoral processes.
Kolkata, Nov 6 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, has recently claimed that the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is allegedly issuing birth certificates to questionable individuals to prevent their removal from the voters' list amid the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise.
In a post on social media, LoP Adhikari revealed that he has formally requested the Municipal Commissioner of KMC for comparative data spanning from October 6 to November 5 and the same timeframe from the previous year of 2024. This data includes information on total certificates issued, those granted to non-residents beyond KMC's jurisdiction, certificates for late registrations (especially for births prior to 2007), and those for recent births.
"I have been informed that the Kolkata Municipal Corporation is engaging in an illegal, immoral, and unethical mass issuance of birth certificates, aimed not at legitimate citizens but at accommodating dubious individuals who risk being struck off the Voter List during the current SIR exercise," Adhikari asserted in an X post.
The BJP leader also indicated that he has submitted an RTI application to the KMC Health Department, seeking detailed statistics on birth certificates issued over the last thirty days.
"This represents a glaring attempt to manipulate electoral rolls and undermine the democratic process. Birth certificates are legal documents intended for citizens, primarily for newborns or, in very rare instances, for those requiring genuine late registrations," he stated.
"They should not be used as instruments for political engineering with the intent of altering demographics for personal gain," he emphasized.
He also called upon the Election Commission to probe into the alleged malpractice he has highlighted.
"Any effort to circumvent legal standards under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, will not be tolerated. I urge the Election Commission of India and relevant authorities to swiftly investigate this misconduct designed to assist illegal infiltrators," the BJP leader concluded.
Point of View
It’s crucial to approach this matter with a balanced perspective. Allegations of electoral manipulation are serious and require thorough investigation. Upholding the integrity of the electoral process is paramount for a healthy democracy. This situation calls for transparency and accountability from the authorities involved.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against KMC?
Suvendu Adhikari has alleged that KMC is issuing birth certificates to suspicious individuals to protect them from being removed from the voters' list during the SIR exercise.
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The SIR is a process conducted by the Election Commission to update and verify the electoral rolls, ensuring that only eligible voters are listed.
What legal implications could KMC face?
If proven, KMC could face legal action for violating the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, and compromising the electoral process.
What steps has Adhikari taken?
Adhikari has demanded data from KMC regarding the issuance of birth certificates and has filed an RTI application for more transparency.
Why are birth certificates important?
Birth certificates are essential legal documents used for identity verification, securing rights, and accessing services.
