CAG to audit KMC birth–death registration process amid allegations of certificate irregularities

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) is set to conduct a detailed audit of the birth and death registration system of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) following growing concerns over alleged irregularities in the issuance of these documents. The move comes after several complaints were raised regarding transparency and adherence to official procedures in the registration department.

The audit aims to verify whether birth and death certificates in the city are being issued strictly according to government rules and whether proper scrutiny of documents submitted during the application process is being carried out. In recent months, multiple allegations have surfaced claiming irregularities in the functioning of the department responsible for these registrations.

Civil groups and opposition voices have also raised concerns that middlemen may be operating within the system, allegedly facilitating the issuance of certificates using forged or incomplete documentation. These claims have intensified demands for a thorough investigation into the process.

During the audit, the CAG team will examine records and files related to certificates issued over the past few years. Particular attention will be given to the period when there was a sharp increase in applications during the Special Intensive Revision of the voter list, when the department reportedly issued hundreds of certificates daily under significant pressure.

Officials are now preparing documents and records for the audit as the investigation is expected to scrutinise both procedural compliance and possible lapses. The findings of the audit could lead to stricter guidelines and action against those responsible if irregularities are confirmed.