Now Nativity Card will decide whether you are a resident of Kerala or not, understand the terms and conditions from FAQ

Kerala An important and historic step was taken in the politics of Kerala on 23 February, when the Kerala Assembly passed the Nativity Card Bill. Calling it a historic and rarest law, the state government said that this law will provide formal and legal recognition to a person’s Kerala origin. This decision is being considered very important from the point of view of the identity and administrative system of the state.

This bill was introduced in the absence of opposition members as they boycotted the session. Revenue Minister K. Rajan, while moving the motion in the House, said that this step will give an official identity to the people of the state and provide them an opportunity to proudly identify themselves as Keralites. The bill will now be sent to the subject committee for further detailed review.

What is the Nativity Card Bill?

Under this Bill, it is proposed to issue a legally valid birth certificate, which will serve as an authentic identity document for state services and social needs. This new certificate will replace the existing birth certificate system and will be valid as a permanent, photo-supported official document. The government says that this document will simplify the administrative procedures and provide convenience to the citizens in availing various government services.

Who will be the native?

1. Any person born in Kerala who has not acquired foreign citizenship.

2. Persons whose parents or ancestors were born in Kerala and who have not renounced Indian citizenship.

3. People who were born outside Kerala, but their parents were outside the state at that time due to employment or livelihood, provided they have not accepted foreign citizenship.

However, if a cardholder subsequently acquires foreign citizenship, his card will become invalid. At the same time, those who have voluntarily taken foreign citizenship will not be eligible for this scheme from the beginning. Under the bill, Tehsildars have been given the right to issue cards at the village level. The applicant has to submit the application along with the prescribed documents and fee. Nativity cards will be issued to eligible persons after completion of the verification process.

What will be included in the card?

The birth certificate to be issued will contain the name of the holder, photograph, date of birth and other necessary details prescribed by the government. This document will be valid as an official identity card for government services, social schemes and administrative purposes. There is also a provision for punishment in the bill. If a person knowingly gives false information while applying for the card, he can be punished with imprisonment of up to three months, a fine of up to Rs 5,000, or both.