The Jaipur Municipal Corporation (JMC) has issued fresh directives mandating that all institutions, including banks, schools, and loan offices, recognize digitally signed birth and death certificates as fully valid documents. This move comes in response to widespread complaints from residents who faced repeated delays and unnecessary visits to municipal offices due to the refusal of these entities to accept the digital certificates.
Background of the Issue
Under the existing system, birth and death certificates issued through the Pehchan portal by JMC are sent directly to residents via WhatsApp. Citizens are permitted to print and use these certificates wherever required. The authenticity of the documents can be verified by scanning the QR code printed on the certificate or through the Pehchan portal. Despite these provisions, many banks, loan and insurance offices, and schools were allegedly insisting that individuals get the certificates reverified by the municipal corporation or submit copies printed on official corporation stationery.
Impact on Residents
This practice led to unnecessary crowding at municipal offices, as residents repeatedly approached the corporation for documents that were already digitally valid. The delays and additional visits caused significant inconvenience to the public.
New Directives Issued
Following complaints from the public, JMC Commissioner Om Kasera issued fresh directions to the lead district bank manager and the chief district education officer. The instructions require all banks, loan offices, and schools to treat digitally signed certificates as fully valid. Officials have been directed to ensure strict compliance with these rules across all subordinate institutions.
Legal Validity of Digital Certificates
Civic authorities have emphasized that hospitals are also authorized to issue birth and death certificates, and that digitally signed copies are legally valid documents. The JMC's directive aims to streamline the process and eliminate the need for residents to visit municipal offices unnecessarily.
The JMC has urged all institutions to update their procedures and accept digital certificates without requiring additional verification. This step is expected to reduce administrative burden and improve citizen convenience.
