Lok Sabha Passes Births and Deaths Registration Amendment Bill Amid Opposition Protests

New Delhi, July 31, 2026: The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026, proposing stricter scrutiny of births and deaths registered more than two years after the event.

The Bill was passed by voice vote amid continued Opposition protests that disrupted proceedings in the House. With the session repeatedly adjourned amid demonstrations, the legislation was cleared without a detailed debate.

Judicial Magistrate’s Order for Delayed Registration

A key provision of the proposed legislation requires an order from a Judicial Magistrate of the First Class for the registration of any birth or death reported more than two years after the event.

The government has said the measure is aimed at curbing delays and strengthening the accuracy and reliability of the country's civil registration system.

Birth and death records are important for establishing legal identity, maintaining demographic data and facilitating access to government services. The government has also stressed that timely registration helps in the effective planning and delivery of healthcare, education and welfare programmes.

Birth Certificate as Key Legal Document

While introducing the Bill, the government highlighted the importance of birth certificates as a primary document for establishing an individual's legal identity.

It said timely registration of births and deaths would reduce administrative difficulties, strengthen record-keeping and make verification of personal details more reliable. The stricter procedure for registrations delayed beyond two years is intended to improve compliance with statutory requirements.

Bill Passed Amid Opposition Disruptions

The passage of the Bill came amid repeated disruptions in Parliament, with Opposition members pressing for a discussion on the alleged police crackdown during a student march earlier in July.

The protests prevented normal proceedings and limited opportunities for detailed discussion on the legislation. The Bill was consequently passed by voice vote without a substantive debate.

The manner of its passage has prompted political criticism, with Opposition members questioning the absence of parliamentary deliberation. The government, however, maintained that legislative business should continue despite disruptions.

Next Step

With the Lok Sabha's approval, the Bill will now move to the next stage of the legislative process. If enacted, it will tighten oversight of delayed birth and death registrations and place greater emphasis on timely and accurate civil registration across the country.

Courtesy : Times of India