Mumbai's Birth Certificate Fraud: A Deepening Crisis

The Mumbai Police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe a scam involving over 87,000 fraudulent birth certificates. The city's civic body has cancelled these certificates, issued between 2024 and 2026, following accusations they were used to legitimize illegal immigrants. Investigations and disciplinary actions are underway.

The Mumbai Police have established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into a major scam involving fake birth certificates, authorities reported on Tuesday. Civic bodies revealed that more than 87,000 counterfeit birth certificates were produced between 2024 and 2026 through manipulated records.

Mayor Ritu Tawde has mandated the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to nullify 87,347 such certificates and initiate a police investigation. This decision followed a series of complaints about fraudulent registrations. Due to the gravity of the situation, Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti commissioned the SIT for an exhaustive inquiry.

BJP leader Kirit Somaiya alleged the scheme facilitated illegal immigration through false documentation. At a meeting with civic authorities, Mayor Tawde urged for immediate action, leading to the suspension of a health officer and reassignment of three officials. The BJP claims irregularities were concealed under the SAP system, used instead of the mandatory Civil Registration System.