Overview
- The Cabinet on February 18 approved legislation to give legal backing to a photo‑affixed Nativity Card that would replace repeated nativity certificates.
- The card would be accepted as an authoritative document for accessing state services and other social requirements, according to the Chief Minister’s office.
- Eligibility in the bill defines a native as someone born in Kerala or with a Kerala‑born ancestor who retains Indian citizenship, with ineligibility for those who hold or later acquire foreign citizenship.
- Applications would be submitted to the tahsildar, registers maintained at village offices, and district collectors empowered to review, cancel, or modify orders after a hearing.
- Congress leader K.C. Joseph urged withdrawal, warning of adverse effects for Malayalis outside the state, and the bill is expected to be introduced when the Assembly reconvenes next week.