Thiruvananthapuram: Former minister K C Joseph urged the state govt to withdraw the proposed Nativity Card Bill, alleging that the move could have serious long-term consequences. Joseph, in a statement, criticised the cabinet’s decision to grant legal validity to the nativity card, claiming it was taken without adequate deliberation or foresight. He said Kerala is a state within the Indian Union and not an independent nation, and added that the govt should keep this in mind while framing such legislation. He compared the proposal to ‘Sir CP’s argument for an independent Travancore.’
According to reports, the govt plans to introduce the Bill in the assembly on Feb 24, refer it to a subject committee the same day, and pass it the following day. Joseph alleged that the proposed schedule leaves little scope for detailed discussion.He questioned the necessity of introducing a separate nativity card when residents already possess recognised identity documents such as Aadhaar, Electoral ID, PAN card, passport and driving licence. The govt, he said, must clarify the specific benefits the nativity card would offer.Joseph also expressed concern that the move could have wider implications if other states adopt similar measures. He said that with discussions at the national level on stricter citizenship documentation, the nativity card could indirectly support such initiatives. If states begin restricting jobs and educational opportunities to those holding nativity cards, Keralites living outside Kerala could face difficulties, he said.Citing estimates, Joseph said around 50 lakh Keralites live outside the state, including about 30 lakh in the Gulf countries and others in various Indian states and abroad. He warned that the proposed card could prove detrimental to their interests. He maintained that most residents already possess Aadhaar or electoral ID cards and argued that the nativity card would have limited utility beyond state-level matters. Introducing the Bill just before the end of the govt’s term was inappropriate and beyond its mandate, he alleged. Joseph urged the state govt to reconsider and withdraw the proposed legislation.
