In Bihar, the online system for residence certificates is apparently so user-friendly that even dogs, cats, crows, and “Donald Trump” have successfully applied — and, in some cases, slipped past the initial checks. Also spotted in the applicant pool: the rather industrious “Sonalika Tractor.”
A residence certificate, or Niwas Praman Patra, is supposed to prove that someone is a permanent resident of Bihar. It’s issued by local revenue authorities like Circle Officers and Village Administrative Officers. In theory, applicants must submit identity proof, address proof, and a self-declaration, all through the Right to Public Service (RTPS) Bihar portal or in person. In theory, the details are verified. In reality… well, “Cat Kumar” made the cut.
The comic relief comes during a massive electoral roll revision by Bihar’s Election Commission, which has already deleted millions of names from voter lists, prompting charges of fraud and manipulation. In Rohtas district, police complaints have been filed, and investigators are now scratching their heads to figure out how a system designed to weed out fraud was outsmarted by barnyard animals and fictional celebrities.
Authorities tout Aadhaar-based authentication and mandatory document uploads as safeguards, yet somehow, the digital gates swung wide open for pranksters. Beyond the laughs, the episode underlines the fragility of Bihar’s data integrity — an especially awkward look during sensitive electoral reforms.