Recently, Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Union of India, requesting its response regarding the establishment of uniform guidelines for the digital issuance of birth and death certificates. The aim is to reduce delays and inconveniences for individuals seeking these certificates, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of the process.

The division Bench of Justice S. Ravindra Bhat and Justice Aravind Kumar was hearing a Special Leave Petition.

The case revolved around a Village Administrative Officer who had been accused of soliciting an illegal gratification of Rs. 1,500 in exchange for issuing a death certificate. In response to a complaint filed by the deceased's son with the Vigilance Department against the appellant, a sting operation was launched, ultimately leading to the appellant's conviction under Section 7 and Section 13(2) in conjunction with Section 13(1)(d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

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."

Case Title: Prakasam v. State Through Inspector & Anti Corruption Wing

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