Supreme Court Issues Notice To Centre For Framing Uniform Guidelines For Issuance Of Birth And Death Certificates Digitally

In a significant development, the Supreme Court recently issued notice to the Union of India and sought its response on the matter of creating consistent guidelines for issuing birth and death certificates digitally to minimize delays and inconveniences for individuals seeking these certificates, making the process more efficient and accessible.

The Bench of Justice S. Ravindra Bhat and Justice Aravind Kumar were dealing with a Special Leave Petition concerning a Village Administrative Officer who was accused of soliciting an illegal gratification of Rs.1,500 in exchange for issuing a death certificate. Following a complaint lodged by the deceased's son with the Vigilance Department against the appellant, a sting operation was initiated, resulting in the appellant's conviction under Section 7 and Section 13(2) read with Section 13(1)(d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Advocate Naresh Kaushik along with Advocate-on-Record Vardhman Kaushik appeared for the appellant.

The Bench granted interim bail to the appellant. However, the Court noted that various states have varying formalities and procedures for issuing birth and death certificates, which results in significant inconvenience and inconsistency for family members who require these certificates for various purposes.

The Court also noted that it is high time to establish uniform guidelines for the issuance of birth and death certificates, which can be accessed online to prevent delays and inconsistencies.

Accordingly, the Bench ordered, "Issue notice to the Union of India and to be served through the concerned Additional Solicitor General on the question of formulating an appropriate guidelines for uniform issuance of birth and death certificates, through digital mode to avoid delay and inconvenience to those who wish to apply for it. Returnable in four weeks. Dasti in addition. Notice to the Union shall be served directly by the Registry."

Cause Title: Prakasam v. State Through Inspector & Anti Corruption Wing [Diary No(s).20390/2023]

Click here to read/download the Order