The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), under the Trinamool Congress (TMC) administration, has initiated a significant drive to issue birth and death certificates through special camps starting today, December 1, 2025. This move coincides with the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, a process recently extended to December 11.
Political Storm Over Civic Drive
The timing of the KMC's initiative has immediately drawn sharp criticism from the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). BJP leaders have leveled serious allegations, claiming the camps could be misused to provide fake birth certificates to "Bangladeshi infiltrators." This accusation is set against a charged political backdrop where the BJP has been actively pushing for the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
Officials note that the demand for both birth and death certificates has seen a noticeable uptick during the SIR period. The civic body's special camps are positioned as an effort to streamline services and meet this increased public demand. However, the political narrative has quickly framed the drive within the larger, contentious debate on citizenship and electoral integrity in the state.
Other Key Events in Kolkata Today
Beyond the political controversy, December 1 marks several other notable events in the city's calendar.
Foundation for Mega Gita Chanting Event
The Sanatan Sanskriti Sansad is organizing a ceremonial event at the Brigade Parade Ground as a precursor to the massive 'Five Lakh Voices Chanting the Gita' (Paanch Lakh Kanthe Gita Path) program scheduled for December 7. Today's ceremony will commence with a Kalash Yatra from Doi Ghat in Khidirpore, culminating in a Dhwaja Yatra at the Brigade Parade Ground. The main rituals include Bhumi Pujan for the event site and the Dhwaja Pujan (flag installation) of Shree Jagannath Dev.
Bidhannagar Mela Utsav Begins
The popular Bidhannagar Mela Utsav opens today at Salt Lake's Central Park. The fair, which will run for several weeks, is expected to feature numerous stalls, pavilions, and potentially attract international participants, adding a festive vibe to the city.
World AIDS Day Observances
As December 1 is globally observed as World AIDS Day, various institutions across West Bengal are conducting awareness campaigns and workshops. The Indian Institute of Legal Studies in Siliguri and local National Service Scheme (NSS) units are among the organizers hosting events aimed at educating the public and combating the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.
Implications and Moving Forward
The KMC's certificate drive, while a routine administrative function, has become ensnared in the state's volatile political climate. The extension of the electoral roll revision to December 11 ensures that this period will remain under intense scrutiny from all political quarters. The success and transparency of the special camps will likely be a point of continued debate, with the BJP's allegations setting the stage for potential confrontations. Meanwhile, Kolkata residents will balance these political undercurrents with the cultural and social engagements that the day also offers.
