Bihar’s citizen record update drive under the State Identification Registry (SIR) has taken a bizarre turn after two digitally signed residence certificates—one in the name of ‘Dog Babu’ and another for a ‘Sonalika tractor’—surfaced on the RTPS portal, triggering widespread backlash and ridicule.
In Masaurhi near Patna, a residence certificate was issued to ‘Dog Babu’, complete with a canine photograph and parent names listed as ‘Kutta Babu’ and ‘Kuttiya Devi’. Shockingly, the certificate was digitally signed by a revenue officer, confirming its official authentication. Just weeks earlier, another certificate in Munger district listed the applicant as ‘Sonalika Kumari’ with a tractor photo and fabricated address.
The viral documents have fueled political controversy, with opposition parties slamming the Bihar government for administrative negligence. Yogendra Yadav called out the irony of such certificates being validated while Aadhaar and ration cards face scrutiny. The Congress went further, calling it “naked manipulation of the electoral system”.
Authorities have launched investigations. The Masaurhi Sub-Divisional Officer has been asked to submit a report within 24 hours, and FIRs have been registered against the applicants, RTPS operators, and issuing officers. Officials confirm disciplinary action is underway.
Patna District Administration stated, “This is not a prank but a serious lapse in governance. Accountability will be ensured.”
The incidents have raised grave concerns over the integrity of digital public service platforms, particularly in light of upcoming voter roll revisions.