Dhaka: Birth and death registration is a fundamental aspect of civil rights, planning, and state management, underscoring its importance beyond personal documentation. The Birth and Death Registration Act, enacted in 2004, mandates the registration of births and deaths, with various officials designated as registrars based on the location of the event.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Act specifies that in city corporation areas, an officer or councilor authorized by the mayor acts as the registrar. In municipal areas, the mayor, administrator, or a designated officer or councilor fulfills this role. In Union Parishad areas, the Chairman or an authorized officer acts as the registrar, and in cantonment areas, the Executive Officer of the Cantonment Board assumes the responsibility. For Bangladeshis born or deceased abroad, an officer authorized by the Bangladesh Embassy’s Ambassador serves as the registrar.
The Act ensures that only one registrar is appointed per area to maintain orderliness in registration. Registrars are required to record details in the birth and death registration book, ensuring inclusivity across race, religion, caste, group, or gender. Failure to register within the specified time prompts the registrar to issue a notice to obtain necessary information.
Parents or guardians must provide birth information within 45 days, and similar timelines apply to death registrations. A child’s name must be determined before registration, but if undetermined, it can be furnished within 45 days post-registration. Birth or death certificates can be issued upon application and payment of a prescribed fee.
The Act mandates maintaining registration books as permanent records and allows for corrections or cancellations of certificates if incorrect information is detected. Birth and death certificates serve as legal evidence in various institutions, ensuring their significance in verifying age and identity.
Violations of the Act result in fines or imprisonment, depending on the offense. Registrars registering false information face penalties unless they can prove ignorance or efforts to prevent the offense. The Act allows for legal recourse through a magistrate court for dereliction of duties.
Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha