Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Cabinet has approved the Kerala Native Card Bill, paving the way for the introduction of an official identity document to certify individuals as natives of the state. The proposed Native Card will be issued based on the existing nativity certificate framework currently used by the government. Once implemented, the card will serve as an authoritative document for availing various government services and meeting social requirements.
Kerala Native Card Bill eligibility criteria
Under the proposed law, a “native” is defined as a person born in Kerala who has not acquired foreign citizenship. The definition also extends to individuals whose parent or ancestor was born in Kerala, provided they have not taken foreign citizenship.
The Bill makes it clear that those who have acquired foreign citizenship will not be eligible for the Native Card. If a cardholder later obtains foreign citizenship, the card will automatically become invalid.
Additionally, individuals born outside Kerala due to their parents’ or ancestors’ employment or livelihood circumstances will also be considered natives, as long as they have not acquired foreign citizenship.
Issuing authority and application process
The Tahsildar will be the authorised officer responsible for issuing the Native Card. However, the official register of Native Cards will be maintained at the respective Village Office.
Applicants must submit their applications in the prescribed format to the Tahsildar, along with the required documents and applicable fees.
The state government will notify the specific circumstances in which the Native Card can be used as an authoritative document, either independently or alongside other official records.
The government may also include additional details in the card from time to time through notifications.
As per the official press release, the District Collector will have the power to review, modify or cancel decisions taken by the Revenue Divisional Officer. However, such action cannot be taken without giving the concerned individual a reasonable opportunity to be heard.