Controversy Over Kerala's Nativity Card Bill

Senior Congress leader K C Joseph has raised concerns over Kerala's proposed Nativity Card Bill, citing potential long-term consequences. Alleging inadequate deliberation by the state government, he questioned its necessity given existing identity documents and warned it might inadvertently support central government policies.

Senior Congress leader K C Joseph on Thursday urged the Kerala state government to reconsider its decision to introduce the controversial Nativity Card Bill, which he believes could have severe long-term repercussions. He argued the Cabinet's approval lacked proper deliberation, risking unnecessary complications for citizens.

Joseph criticized the move to issue photo-embedded nativity cards akin to current nativity certificates in Kerala. He questioned the benefits of this new card, especially since citizens already have Aadhaar, electoral IDs, and other official documents.

Expressing concern, Joseph highlighted the potential implications for Keralites living outside the state amid tightening citizenship regulations. He called for greater transparency on the intentions behind the Bill, slated to be introduced in the Assembly soon.

(With inputs from agencies.)