SIT investigates birth certificate fraud in Yavatmal

Special Investigation Team Formed for CRS Irregularities in Yavatmal

MUMBAI: The state Home Department has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate significant irregularities in the Civil Registration System (CRS) records for birth and death registrations at Shendursani Gram Panchayat in Arni taluka, Yavatmal district. This follows a preliminary inquiry that uncovered alarming discrepancies in the official data.

Preliminary Findings

Preliminary findings show that the village has a population of around 1,300. However, nearly 27,000 birth and death certificates were generated through the CRS portal in its name. Officials stated that these figures are highly disproportionate to the village’s demographic profile, suggesting possible misuse, manipulation, or fraud involving the digital registration system.

Legal Actions Taken

Based on the preliminary probe, an FIR has been filed at Yavatmal City police station. The FIR includes charges under Sections 318(4) (cheating), 337 (forgery), 336(3) (forgery for cheating), and 340(2) (fraud) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Section 66 (computer-related fraud) of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000. The case is being investigated by the sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) of Yavatmal police.

Investigation Escalated to SIT

In a press note issued on Monday, the Home Department stated that due to the seriousness of the matter and its potential implications, the investigation has been escalated to an SIT. The team will be led by the additional director general of police, Maharashtra Cyber Police, with the deputy director of health services and the district health officer as members.

Coordination Meeting Held

A coordination meeting was held recently between the ADGP, Maharashtra Cyber, and senior health officials to review the incident and the preliminary inquiry findings. Key observations were recorded, and detailed instructions were given to the investigating officer to ensure a thorough investigation and strict compliance during the probe.

SIT’s Next Steps

Officials stated that the SIT has been directed to conduct a technical examination of CRS data, including the analysis of IP logs. They will also question individuals in whose names allegedly false certificates were generated to establish the modus operandi and identify those responsible.

Upcoming Visit to Shendursani Gram Panchayat

The SIT has scheduled a visit to Shendursani Gram Panchayat later this week. They will carry out ground-level verification, scrutinize local registration processes, and identify any systemic or procedural loopholes that may have been exploited.