Case Title: Prakasam v. State Through Inspector & Anti Corruption Wing
Introduction
Welcome to the official blog of the Law Offices of Kr. Vivek Tanwar Advocate and Associates, where we are dedicated to providing litigation support services for matters related to the Admissibility of Birth Certificates in Court. In today’s blog post, we aim to shed light on the prevailing issues surrounding the Admissibility of Birth Certificates in Court, the legal framework for their protection, and the steps we can take as a society to combat these acts. Join us as we explore this critical subject and empower you with the knowledge to protect your rights and safety.
In a recent development, the Supreme Court of India has issued a notice to the Union government, seeking the formulation of uniform guidelines for issuing birth and death certificates through digital means. This move aims to streamline and expedite the process, eliminating delays and inconveniences faced by individuals applying for these vital documents.
The Court’s Notice
A recent order by a bench comprising Justices S. Ravindra Bhat and Aravind Kumar emphasizes the need for a standardized approach to issuing birth and death certificates through digital channels. The notice issued to the Union of India directs them to formulate appropriate guidelines that will ensure consistency in the process. This move comes in response to concerns about delays and difficulties faced by those applying for these certificates.
The order states, “Issue notice to the Union of India and to be served through the concerned Additional Solicitor General on the question of formulating 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.
Background of the Case
The Supreme Court’s intervention in this matter stems from a special leave petition filed by a village-level officer who had been convicted under the Prevention of Corruption Act. He was accused of accepting a bribe from the son of a deceased individual in exchange for issuing his father’s death certificate.
In addition to issuing the notice regarding the uniform guidelines, the bench also took note of the quantum of the sentence imposed on the appellant officer. Furthermore, the court granted interim bail to the appellant, acknowledging the complexity of the case.
The Challenged Sentence
The appellant-officer has challenged the one-year sentence imposed by the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court. The conviction was based on the charge of demanding an illegal gratification of Rs 1,500 in exchange for expediting the issuance of the death certificate.
Implications and Significance
The Supreme Court’s decision to issue a notice to the Centre reflects the growing importance of digitalization in government services. Streamlining the process of obtaining birth and death certificates through digital means could significantly reduce delays and corruption while ensuring greater efficiency and transparency.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s issuance of a notice to the Union government to establish uniform guidelines for issuing birth and death certificates through digital means signifies a step toward streamlining this crucial administrative process. This move reflects the court’s commitment to ensuring transparency, efficiency, and fairness in the issuance of these vital documents. The case also highlights the importance of addressing corruption in such matters and ensuring that individuals can obtain the necessary certificates without undue delays and obstacles. The matter is expected to progress over the coming weeks, with potential implications for the broader practice of issuing certificates through digital channels.
We are a law firm in the name and style of Law Offices of Kr. Vivek Tanwar Advocate and Associates at Gurugram and Rewari. We are providing litigation support services for matters related to the Admissibility of Birth Certificates in Court (IEA 1872).