Weeks

Assam Tribune/The Sentinel/The Telegraph/Asomiya Pratidin/Asomiya Khabar/Amar Asom Reports : The Assam Tribune, The Sentinel, The Telegraph, Asomiya Pratidin, Asomiya Khabar and Amar Asom in their 31st July issues published similar reports on prevalence of flourishing fake birth certificate rackets in the state which are casting shadows over the prospect of preparing a foolproof NRC for Assam. It is alleged in the reports that the state health department authorities are found to be issuing birth certificates to persons declared to be foreigners by the Foreigners Tribunals of the state.The reports also highlighted the fact of taking cognizance of the matter by the honourable Gauhati High Court.

Our Response : The Deputy Commissioners and the Superintendents of all the districts have been asked to take immediate action for closing down such fake birth certificate rackets if found to be operating in their respective districts and also to apprehend all the culprits in due process of law. Simultaneously, they have also been urged to sensitize members of the public through rigorous awareness campaign in their districts about the futility of producing fake birth certificates for getting names included in updated NRC as any documents will be nullified if found to be fake during verification. They are further advised to convey the message to all concerned that involvement in such illegal activities is punishable under law with imprisonment for five years or with fine for Rupees fifty thousand or with both as per provisions of section 17 of “The Citizenship Act, 1955”.

Niyomiya bartta/Asomiya Khabar Reports: The Niyomiyabartta and Asomiya Khabar in their 31st July issuespublished reports which allege that some functionaries viz. data entry operators of Alitangani NSK under Jamuguri GP in Nagaon district are found to have been collecting money through one GR.IV employee of the Jamuguri GP and another broker named Pathan by manipulating the practice of receiving forms from the public which led to strong protest and resentment in the minds of the applicants.

Our Response : Deputy Commissioners of all the districts have already been instructed to ensure proper management of the NSKs in their respective districtsthrough use of queue management techniques like token system, staggering of applicationreceipt and adequate publicity campaign.Guidelines issued to the effect that NRC application forms are to be submitted by one of the members of a family only and strangers/brokers are not to be allowed as a matter of rule need to be followed by the NSK officials scrupulously. All the DCs have been further directed to take stern disciplinary action against all corrupt and delinquent functionaries. In the instant case DC, Nagaon has been asked to take corrective action immediately.

Edinar Sambad : Edinar Sambad in its 29th July issue published a report captioned “ৰাজ্যৰ ১০ সহস্ৰাধিক গাঁৱত নাই গাঁওবুঢ়া-কুমাৰীকাটা মৌজাত এন আৰ চিক লৈ গাঁওবুঢ়াৰ দূৰ্নীতিত অতিষ্ঠ ৰাইজ” wherein it is alleged that non-availability of Gaonburhas over 10000 villages in 6 districts of the state has badly affected the works of NRC updating process as Gaonburhas are to provide vital information to Circle Officer/BDO/GP Secretary etc to enable them to issue various NRC related certificates/documents to the public. The same news item also indicated that the people of Khoirabari, Kalipur No.1, 2, 3 & 4, Banhbari, Bhalukjhar, Naukata etc villages under Kumarikata Mouza in Tamulpur Revenue Circle as well as those belonging to Nagrijuli Revenue Circle under Baksa district have to depend on Gaonburhas of other areas for NRC related certificates. The incharge Gaonburhas are harassing these people by demanding money for their certificates.

Our Response : The same News Item was published by “Amar Asom” in its 27th July’15 issue. In consideration of the urgent need of services of Gaonburha/Lot Mandal/SKs during updating of NRC process, steps are being taken to fill up the vacant posts of Gaonburhas, Lot Mandals and Supervisory Kanungos as soon as possible. All the DCs have also been suitably directed to take stern action against functionaries involved in NRC updating process under their respective districts if found indulging in corrupt practices of any kind. Members of the public are also urged to register their complaints against any functionary demanding money from them for any legitimate certificate/document with the concerned Circle Officer/Deputy Commissioner or Vigilance and Anti Corruption Branch, GOA by calling at 0361-2462295. In the instant case, DC, Baska and other concerned DCs have been asked to take appropriate action to address the problems reported.

Amar Asom : Amar Asom in its report published on 29TH July issue under the caption “পথাৰত ধান ৰোপণ এৰি এন আৰ চিৰ কামত ব্যস্ত কৃষক”) wherein it is alleged that people are subjected to great harassment in the NSKs of west Assam viz. Bongaigaon, Chirang, Kokrajhar, Dhubri,, Goalpara, Barpeta etc districts owing to receipt of limited number of application forms per day, frequent disruption of power supply, occasional malfunctioning of computers, inadequacy of manpower in the NSKs. People are reportedly very enthusiastic to submit their applications and have come in plenty leaving behind their works in paddy fields but are getting disappointed being unable to submit forms due to heavy rush.

Our Response : Deputy Commissioners of all the districts have already been instructed to ensure proper management of the affairs of the NSKs in their respective districts through providing of basic facilities and infrastructure, hygiene, deployment of adequate resources, implementation of plan for rationalization amongst the existing NSKs, use of queue management techniques like token system, staggering of application receipt and adequate publicity campaign. In the instant case, DCs of west Assam districts have been directed afresh to initiate proper mechanism to quicken receipt of application forms by their LRCRs from the applicants and not to delay the process by undertaking thorough scrutiny of documents accompanying the application forms at the ongoing application receipt stage. It may however, be seen that 129 NSKs in these districts have recorded receipt of more than 80 forms per day, 59 NSKs have recorded receipt of 101 to 120 forms per day, 36 NSKs have recorded receipt of 121 to 150 forms per day and 24 NSKs have recorded receipt of more than 151 forms per day during the period from 21-07-15 to 28-07-15.

Asomiya Pratidin/ Doinik Agradoot/Edinar Sambad/Doinandin Bartta Report : Asomiya Pratidin/ Doinik Agradoot etc local dailies in their 30th July, 2015 issues published reports that the people of Sorutezpur village under Palasbari Revenue Circle demonstrated strong protest in the office premises of the Circle Office against Shri Hareswar Kalita, Gaonburha of Sorutezpur village for harassing the people of his lot by demanding money for NRC related services. CO, Palasbari reportedly assured the people to take action against the corrupt GB.

Our Response : In the instant case, DC, Kamrup has been asked to cause an immediate enquiry into the matter and to take corrective action.

Asomiya Pratidin : Another news item captioned “ লালুকত ভয়ংকৰ কাণ্ড- আশা কৰ্ম্মীৰ হাতে হাতে ছীল-মোহৰ সম্বলিত উকা জন্মৰ প্ৰমাণ পত্ৰ” is published in Asomiya Pratidin in its 30th July, 2015 issue wherein it is alleged that some Asha workers were seen in the Laluk Model Hospital in Lakhimpur district with some blank birth certificate in their hands. The blank birth certificates reportedly carry seal, signature and registration numbers though no names of child, parents and addresses etc are recorded. People doubt these birth certificates to be fake.

Our Response : In the instant case, DC, Lakhimpur has been asked to cause an immediate enquiry in to the matter and take corrective action.

Asomiya Pratidin : In its 28th July issue published a report captioned “কৰ্মচাৰীৰ অনিয়মীয়া উপস্থিতি- কাকীত এন আৰ চি সেৱা কেন্দ্ৰত উত্তেজনা” wherein it is stated that mass resentment amongst members of the public prevailed due to late arrival of the LRCR of No.16 Kaki NSK under Lanka Revenue Circle in Nagaon district. The report alleged that the LRCR Golo Kalita is very irregular in attending his office and as a result people coming from faraway places covering 20-30 KMs are subjected to harassment being compelled to visit the NSK for 4-5 days to submit their NRC application forms.

Our Response : Deputy Commissioners of the districts have already been instructed to take stern action against all the officials under their administrative control who is showing negligence to NRC duties. DC, Nagaon has been asked to cause an immediate enquiry into the report of alleged irregular attendance of LRCR of Kaki No. 16 NSK and and take corrective action.

Doinik Agradoot/Asomiya Pratidin : Doinik Agradoot & Asomiya Pratidin in their 28TH July issue published reports under the caption (1) “ বাক্সাত এন আৰ চিৰ প্ৰপত্ৰ জমা দিয়াৰ নামত ৰাইজক হাৰাশাস্তি” and (2) “আজাৰাৰ এন আৰ চি সেৱা কেন্দ্ৰত ৰাইজৰ দুৰ্ভোগ” wherein it is alleged that people are subjected to harassment in the NSKs of Baksa district and in the NSKs under Azara Revenue Circle in Kamrup Metropolitan district due to lack of proper management of the NSKs. Many people have to go back home without being able to submit their applications even after standing in queue for three to four days. The report further alleged that the Nayabasti Integrated Child Development Project Officer who is the designated LRCR of Nayabasti NSK leaves the NSK without completing the schedule work thus bringing the works in the NSK to a halt.

Our Response : Deputy Commissioners of all the districts have already been instructed to ensure proper management of the affairs of the NSKs in their respective districts on issues like providing of basic facilities and infrastructure, hygiene, deployment of adequate resources, implementation of plan for rationalization amongst the existing NSKs, use of queue management techniques like token system, staggering of application and adequate publicity campaign. In the instant case, DC, Baska and DC, Kamrup (Metro) have been asked to take appropriate action to address the problems faced by the people in NSKs under their districts.

Janasadharan : Janasadharan in its 28th July,2015 issue published report uncder the caption “হাউলীত জন্মৰ প্ৰমাণ পত্ৰৰ নামত অবাধ বেহা- এন আৰ চি প্ৰপত্ৰ পূৰণক লৈ হাহাকাৰ” wherein it is alleged that rampant corrupt practices are being indulged in by different authorities in the name of issuance of Gaonburha Certificate, Birth Certificate, Affidavit Notarization and for assisting in form filling up. The report further alleged that large scale anomalies in receipt of NRC application forms are taking place in the NSKs of rural areas in Barpeta district owing to intervention of middlemen in the exercise.

Our Response : All the Deputy Commissioners across the state have already been instructed to ensure prevention of corrupt practices indulged in by any functionary involved in NRC updating process by taking suitable disciplinary measures and also to ensure proper management of the affairs of the NSKs in their respective districts on issues like providing of basic facilities and infrastructure, hygiene, deployment of adequate resources, implementation of plan for rationalization amongst the existing NSKs, use of queue management techniques like token system, staggering of application and adequate publicity campaign. In the instant case, DC, Barpeta has been asked to take appropriate action to address the problems faced by the people at the NSKs under their districts.

Amar Asom : Amar Asom in its 25TH July issue published a report under the caption “এন আৰ চি : চিৰাঙত ভুৱা প্ৰমাণ-পত্ৰৰ ৰমৰমীয়া বেহা। এহাজাৰ টকা দিয়ক আৰু জন্মৰ প্ৰমাণ-পত্ৰ লওক” wherein it is alleged that even a certain ASHA worker of Dangtol has been supplying over 100 fake birth certificates @ Rs. 1000/- per certificate purportedly issued from District Health Officer, Chirang and J.S.B Civil Hospital, Kajalgaon. The report also reveals that the fake birth certificates are being enclosed as linkage certificates with the NRC application forms submitted by a section of applicants and some touts and government Gaonburhas are also involved in the racket.

Our Response : Deputy Commissioners of all districts have already been instructed on multiple instances to deal with all instances of corrupt practices indulged in by officials engaged at various levels for NRC updation works in their respective districts sternly. Authenticity of all documents including the linkage certificates adduced by the applicants will be duly verified by the Verification Teams (VT) and members of the public/media will be free to point out these issues during field verification in their respective areas so that these do not escape close scrutiny of the VTs. D.C, Chirang is, however, asked to cause appropriate enquiry in to the serious report of corrupt practices by Government functionaries as alleged to have taken place in his district and to furnish an Acton Taken Report forthwith.

Doinik Agradoot : Doinik Agradoot in its 25th July,2015 issue published the news captioned “আঁতৰা নাই বিভ্ৰান্তি :বহূ পৰিয়াল বঞ্চিত হোৱাৰ শ্ংকা” wherein it is alleged among others that 300 families of Ghoramara Village under Baganpara Revenue Circle in Baksa district are going to be deprived from getting their names included in NRC as the nearest NSK refused to accept their forms.

Our Response : All the residents of the state are eligible to receive and submit Application Form. Public notices have been published in this regard and the administration has been instructed and sensitized on the same. The Deputy Commissioner, Baksa is asked to enquire into the reported matter of denial of service to public and to take appropriate action so that receipt of NRC application forms from all the families of Ghoramara village could be ensured. The public of Ghoramara village under Baganpara Revenue Circle in Baksa district need not worry as the matter is taken up with urgency.

Doinik Janambhumi : Doinik Janambhumi in its 25th July 2015 issue carried a report captioned “কাৰ্বি আংলঙত ধনৰ লালসাতে গাঁওবুঢ়াই দিছে প্ৰমাণপত্ৰ-এন আৰ চিত বহিৰাগতৰ নাম অন্তৰ্ভূক্তিৰ সম্ভাৱনা” wherein it is alleged that Gaonburhas in Karbi Anglong district have been issuing certificates in lieu of money without authority as a result of which there is possibility of illegal migrants getting their names included in updated NRC on the strength of certificates of Gaonburhas. The report further goes on to say that if Gaonburhas’ certificates are not properly cross checked during verification by the district administration/NRC functionaries, the Hill district will face serious problems in future.

Our Response : Authenticity of all documents including the linkage certificates adduced by the applicants will be duly verified by the Verification Teams (VT) and members of the public/media will be free to point out these issues during field verification in their respective areas so that these do not escape close scrutiny of the VTs. Deputy Commissioners of all districts have already been instructed to deal with all instances of corrupt practices indulged in by officials engaged at various levels for NRC updation works in their respective districts sternly. D.C, Karbi Anglong is, however, once again asked to cause appropriate enquiry in to the report of corrupt and illegal practices of issuing certificates being indulged in by the Gaonburhas in his district, as alleged, and to furnish an Acton Taken Report upon initiating necessary action as per law.

Assam Tribune : (1) ASSAM TRIBUNE in its 24TH July issue published a report under the caption “Negligence at NSK centre angers citizens” in Bongaigaon Zila Parishad NSK, Barpara. The report alleged that legacy documents submitted along with the forms were dumped in a corner outside the centre and some of the forms submitted by applicants from Sipansila and Majgaon village are yet to be traced by the NSK officials.

Our Response : The same news item was published by “Amar Asom” in its 23rd July issue. Deputy Commissioner , Bongaigaon has been asked to enquire into the incident and to submit a factual report. In view of the news item appearing in Assam Tribune again alleging that some of the documents submitted by applicants in Bongaigaon Zila Parishad NSK remain untraceable, Deputy Commissioner , Bongaigaon has been instructed to furnish his enquiry report on the matter soon.

(2) Another news item published in Assam Tribune on 24-07-15 relates to anomalies in NRC in Cachar district as alleged by BJP, Cachar District Unit. According to the news item “a vicious circle is running foul business at some NSKs on the pretext of providing legacy data.” in the district.

Our Response : Meanwhile, all the Deputy Commissioners have suitably been instructed to prevent all sorts of corrupt practices indulged in by any government functionary or individual or groups, touts, brokers etc with regard to issuance of any NRC related certificates, documents in their respective districts. Public have also been notified urging them to register complaints against specific cases of corrupt practices before the concerned Circle Officer (CRCR), Deputy Commissioner and also with Vigilance and Anti corruption Branch of Govt of Assam.

Doinik Agradoot : Doinik Agradoot reports that inadequacy of manpower in Puthimari NSK in Kamrup district has led not only to very slow progress of receipt of NRC application forms but also to harassment to the people. Agitated people took to altercation with the NRC officials on 20-07-15.

Our Response : It is the responsibility of the concerned DRCR (DC) to ensure rationalization of NSKs under his/her district through proper mobilization of required resources against each NSK as already advised. DC(DRCR), Kamrup is being asked to revisit his arrangement in the Puthimari NSK. The Execution Director, WIPRO has also been asked to collect the actual status of per day receipt of NRC application forms against Puthimari NSK in Kamrup district w.e.f. 01-07-2015 till date and furnish a detailed report so that necessary steps could be taken up to address the issue at the earliest.

Asomiya Pratidin : Asomiya Pratidin in its 24th July issue published a report to the effect that NSK officials of different NSKs such as NSK set up at Samuguri Revenue Circle campus, Udmari, Laokhowa, Magurmari, Kawoimari, Salpara, Singimari, khatowal etc do not attend their LRCR offices timely causing much inconvenience and harassment to the members of the public. The report further says that the Circle Officer (CRCR) who is to supervise the functioning of the LRCRs under his circle has taken no steps to ensure regular presence of the officials specially the officials of the NSK which is located within his office campus.

Our Response : The Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in their order given in WP (C) No 562/2012 on 21-07-2015 has ordered all authorities to act faithfully and diligently to carry out their assigned tasks to ensure smooth preparation of NRC and publication thereof within 1st January, 2016. Referring to the provisions of Article 144 of the Constitution of India, the Hon’ble court also ordered that any person found to be creating any obstruction or hindrance, in any manner, in the preparation of the NRC would be subjected to such orders as the Hon’ble Supreme Court would pass in such eventualities. The orders have been communicated to all the Deputy Commissioners. In the instant case, DC , Nagaon has been instructed to enquire into the matter and take appropriate corrective measures view of the above order to ensure that the LRCR officials discharge their assigned duties diligently.

Janasadharan Reports : (1) Janasadharan in its 24th July issue inquires whether the names of 453 jail inmates of Golaghat Jail will be included in NRC or not. The Superintendent of the Golaghat Jail is reported to have facilitated the inmates in getting their names included in NRC.

(2) Report published in Janasadharan on its 24th July issue also says that Touts, some Gaonburhas, GP Secretaries of Mukalmua/ Barkshetri area in Nalbari district are harassing the local poor and illiterate people by demanding money in the name of filling up of the NRC form.

Our Response : (1) The NRC authority has already solicited guidelines on this issue from the RGI which is awaited. Members of the public will be notified on the procedure to be followed on the issue soon after receipt of RGI guidelines.

(2) : Meanwhile, all the DC (DRCR)s have suitably been instructed to prevent all sorts of corrupt practices indulged in by any government functionary or individual or groups, touts, brokers etc with regard to any NRC related works like issuance of certificates, documents in their respective districts. Public have also been notified urging them to register complaints against specific cases of corrupt practices before the concerned Circle Officer (CRCR), DC (DRCR) and also with Vigilance and Anti Corruption Branch of Govt of Assam. In the instant case, Deputy Commissioner, Nalbari has been instructed to enquire into the matter and take appropriate corrective measures.

Amar Asom : Amar Asom in its 23rd July issue published a report to the effect that documents enclosed with the NRC application forms at the time of submission in the NSK set up at Bongaigaon Zila Parishad office were found in dustbin by the applicants during their subsequent visit to the NSK reportedly for collection of the Acknowledge Receipt. The incident reportedly led to untoward situation within the premises of the NSK which, however, was quelled by the local circle officer and the police.

Our Response : The DC (DRCR) Bongaigaon has been asked to enquire into the incident and to submit a factual report.

Amar Asom : Report published in Amar Asom in its 23rd July issue alleges that People are facing harassment in submitting their NRC application forms in some NSKs under Nagaon district on account of absolute mismanagement in the NSKs. Anomalies are reported in the token management system resulting in convenience of public. The report further alleges that the officials of the NSK established at Dighaliati GP office under Raha Development Block in Nagaon district have been inflicting immense harassment to the people by making them to await for 2 to 3 days before they are able to submit their NRC forms. People have been forced to switch over to online submission of NRC forms at high expenses.

Our Response : The Execution Director, WIPRO has also been requested to collect the actual status of per day receipt of NRC application forms against Dighalati GP office NSK in Nagaon district w.e.f. 01-07-2015 till date. DC (DRCR), Nagaon, too, is being asked to enquire into the matter of mismanagement of NSKs as alleged in the report immediately and to furnish a factual report to the SCNR. On receipt of reports, those shall be uploaded in the website for information of the public.

Doinik Agradoot/Asomiya Pratidin : Reports have been published in Doinik Agradoot/Asomiya Pratidin in their 22nd July issues about ransacking of Melekadhing NSK set up at Melekadhing GP office under Juria police station in Nagaon district by local residents being infuriated for absence of NSK officials till mid day on 21-07-15. The reports indicate that the people of the locality have never seen the face of the GP Secretary of Melekadhing GP for which they are facing immense inconvenience. Similar incident is reported to have occurred in Teliya Bebejia GP NSK also on 20th of July, 2015 for absence of NSK officials there. The regular absence of NSK officials in some of the NSKs in the district has caused sufferings to the people in submitting their NRC application form and as per the report may likely to cause serious law and order problems in the affected NSK areas.

Our Response : As per the input received from district administration, it appears that no such incident of ransacking of Melekadhing NSK took place. It is reported that there is persistent public demand on accepting more forms per day, however, no such instance of public interrupting in smooth functioning of NSK due to absence of LRCR was confirmed by the administration. Enquiry has also been made regarding the reported incidence in Telia Bebejia regarding which it is informed that the LRCR on the given day was on leave and the LO reported to duty late, at 11 AM. Instruction has been issued to the DC, Nagaon to look into both the instances and take appropriate action any functionary found guilty of dereliction of assigned duties.

Doinik Janambhumi : Report published in Doinik Janambhumi in its 22nd July issue alleges conspiracy to exclude indigenous people while safeguarding the interest of the suspected migrants in Sonitpur district by not managing the affairs of the NSKs properly and also not facilitating the residents in collecting their required documents by the district administration, Sonitpur.

Our Response : It is reassured to public that the entire administration of the state is working with the common goal of ensuring successful updation of NRC. Any instance of mismanagement, if found, would be taken up immediately for corrective action and action shall be taken against guilty. The public may complaint against any such instance of mismanagement to the Deputy Commissioner who is also the District Registrar of Citizens Registration, to Circle Officer who is the Circle Registrar of Citizen Registration, as well as in the Toll Free Helpline No 15107 or through our online Grievance Redressal System at http://nrcassamcomplaints.in/.

Janasadharan: Janasadharan in its 20th July issue reports that Villagers of Sorupathar in Golaghat district are expressing their concern and worry about the lack of legacy data against them and their apprehension escalates with the last date of submission of NRC application forms drawing closer.The people also reportedly threatened to launch agitation if they are not provided with legacy data by the administration.

Our Response: Legacy Data, as available with the government, has been made available for public in NSKs as well as on web. However, for few areas if the legacy data is not available with the government, the same could not be made available. However, the Legacy Data, that is the NRC 1951 and Electoral Rolls upto 24th March 1971, are not the only options to claim eligibility for inclusion in NRC. There are 12 other admissible documents available for pubic to furnish to support their claim for inclusion in NRC. The people of Sorupathar area are requested to cooperate with the administration as all possible efforts will be made to facilitate their names to be included in the updated NRC.

Asomiya Khabar: AsomiyaKhabar in its 20th July issue reports that 41 NSKs are operating in Bilasipara Sub-Division under Dhubri district where officers are alleged to have been looting in the name of supplying consumables to the NSKs. The report says that the Gen sets are out of order, Laptops and printers also malfunctioning and fuel supply is absolutely irregular in the NSKs. The news item urged the need to increase the manpower resources and consumables including payment of honorarium to the FLOs.

Our Response: On the basis of media reports, the matter related to non-functioning equipment at 41 NSKs under Bilasipara, Dhubri was enquired and it was found that no such case of non-functioning laptop, printer, gen set is reported. NSKs under Bilasipara have been performing well and have received so far 15,814 Application Forms in total.

Doinik Agradoot: Doinik Agradoot in its 20th July issue reports that receipt of application forms are going on in a snail pace in Rupohihat in Nagaon district, Lahorighat in Morigaon district South Salmara in Dhubri district while rampant corruption in issuance of NRC related certificates for married women/ birth certificates/ educational certificates etc indulged in by the local Gaonburas/ GP Secretaries/ Head masters of local schools are taking place in Lahorighat in Morigaon district.

Our Response: The pace of receipt of NRC application forms appears to have gained momentum in the NSKs of late. The operators’ speed too have gone up considerably recently. As such, all the residents of the state will be able to submit their NRC application forms without any problems. People need not worry and apprehend any inconvenience in so far as submission of their forms for inclusion of names in the updated NRC.

All the Deputy Commissioners have already been instructed to take stern action against all the field level functionaries in their respective districts who are found to indulge in any sort of corrupt practices in the name of issuance of any NRC related certificates/documents. People also need to register complaints before the concerned Circle Officers (CRCRs), Deputy Commissioners (DRCRs), Local Police Stations and also with the Vigilance and Anti Corruption Branch of the Government of Assam. The telephone number 0361-2462295 of the V& AC branch and our Toll Free Helpline number 15107 have already been notified for the benefit of the public. The DCs of Nagaon, Morigaon and Dhubri are once again reminded to take necessary action to prevent recurrence of any corrupt practices in the larger interest of society.

Doinik Agradoot: Report published in Doinik Agradoot in its 19th July issue says that the whimsical and negligent behavior in discharging duties and responsibilities of LRCR by the ICDPO,Nayabasti of Nayabasti NSK under Baganpara Revenue Circle in Baksa district has caused immense harassment to the people of the area in submitting NRC application forms in the NSK. The report further indicates that the LRCR and his staff open the LRCR office very late, sometimes as late as up to 12 noon. People of the area are subjected to visit the NSK as many as 5 to 6 days for submission of their forms. The LRCR officer and his staff are alleged to waste long time in the name of taking lunch even when they open the NSK after the schedule opening hour. Similarly, they also close the office of the LRCR before the schedule closing hours. Deputy Commissioner, Baksa is reportedly informed of the matter.

Our Response: The Deputy Commissioner (DRCR) of Baksa district has been asked to cause an immediate enquiry into the alleged serious act of dereliction of duties and responsibilities on the part of the LRCR, Nayapara NSK and to take appropriate measures as per the findings of his. All efforts will be made to address the issue in the interest of the applicants under the jurisdiction of the said NSK.

Amar Asom: News report published in its 19th July issue indicates that people of Hajalpara under Goreswar Revenue Circle in Baksa district are yet to find their Legacy Data for which they expressed their resentment and protest publicly. The people of the locality also alleged to have demanded for appointment of Gaonburaha in their village.

Our Response: Legacy Data, as available with the government, has been made available for public in NSKs as well as on web. However, for few areas if the legacy data is not available with the government, the same could not be made available. However, the Legacy Data, that is the NRC 1951 and Electoral Rolls upto 24th March 1971, are not the only options to claim eligibility for inclusion in NRC. There are 12 other admissible documents available for pubic to furnish to support their claim for inclusion in NRC. The matter of appointment of Gaonburhais taken up by the district administration.

Doinik Janambhumi : (1) Report published in Dionik Janambhumi says that one Chintamoni Das, head master of Bayan Silpi Night School which is allegedly a non-existent school in Sualkuchi under Kamrup district has been selling back dated certificates meant to be used in connection with updating of NRC for Rs.200/- to Rs.1000/- per certificate.

(2) Another report published in Doinik Janambhumi apprehends that it would be disastrous if foolproof mechanism for verification of documents submitted with NRC application forms is not ensured. The report alleges that numerous claims of eligibility against a single legacy data are being made even in Lakhimpur and Dibrugarh districts, leave alone, the happenings in the Lower Assam districts. Religious minority people with similar names have taken full advantage for establishing linkages with the help of easily obtainable linkage certificates issued by Gaonburhas and the Educational institutions. In certain pockets, many children are reported have claimed linkage through their Indian mothers only as most of their fathers are Bangladeshi nationals.

Our Response : (1) DC, Kamrup has been asked to enquire into the matter and to take appropriate action as per law. Action as required will be taken after receipt of DC’s report.

(2) A strong mechanism for verification of documents - both legacy and linkage - will be used during verification phase of NRC Update process. The software too provides for a strong mechanism for this. Software will generate alerts wherever unreasonable high numbers of persons are found to have claimed linkage with the same person. While visiting or verifying particulars of any person, reports will also be available with the Verification Team officials about all other persons who have claimed same linkage as claimed by the person being verified. This will enable to cross-check the claims made amongst siblings. Members of the public will also be able to register objection against any suspected entry in the Draft NRC to be published before finalization of NRC, Assam. All law abiding people should bring any instance of irregularity to the notice of the concerned Deputy Commissioner, Circle Officer and the LRCR (Local Registrar of Citizen Registration) immediately. All Deputy Commissioners are being directed to be vigilant and watchful about the activities of all the authorities empowered to issue NRC related certificates/documents under their respective districts.

Janasadharan : Reports that People living in Takimari GP area of Jaleswar Development Block under Goalpara district have been facing harassment in getting their linkage documents as Md Rezaul Islam, GP Secretary , Takimari GP does not attend his office regularly and indulges in brokerage to issue NRC related linkage certificates to the poor people.

Our Response : All the Deputy Commissioners have already been instructed to take stern action against all those who indulge in Corrupt practices. Members of the public too need to be alert and to register complaints against such government functionaries before the concerned DC/CO or with Vigilance and Anti Corruption Branch, Govt of Assam. In the instant case, DC, Goalpara is being asked to enquire into Takimari GP Secretary’s alleged dereliction of duty and to take necessary action as per law.

Asomiya Pratidin/ Niyomiya Bartta : Reports that computers have been stolen from Kasomari NSK, near Nagaon town in Nagaon district. Local police of Haibargaon Police Station has been informed though computers are yet to be recovered.

Our Response : Deputy Commissioner (DRCR) and Superintendent of Police, Nagaon district have been instructed to enquire/ investigate into the theft case and to ensure recovery of the valuable Government properties by apprehending the culprits. System Integrator (Wipro) is also being asked to furnish a detailed factual report on the present status of functioning of the Kasomari NSK including ensuring presence of Chowkidar at the NSK.

Amar Asom/Niyamiya Bartta : Reports that people of Bilasipara town under Dhubri district have been harassed by a few Ward Councilors/Commissioners for linkage certificates in connection with updating of NRC.

Our Response : All the Deputy Commissioners have been instructed to take stern action against anyone found to have indulged in corrupt practices in matters of issuance of NRC related certificates. People can also register cases/complaints against the guilty officials. In the instant case, Deputy Commissioner, Dhubri has been asked to enquire and take necessary action to address the issue.

Doinik Jugasangkha : Doinik Jugasangkha reports that receipt of NRC application forms are yet to commence at the NSK set up in the office of the BDO, Dharmashala due allegedly to non-downloading of software in the computers. It is further alleged in the report that 350 families living in Fulkakata GP area have been made to walk 20 KM to reach their NSK at Dharmashala.

Our Response : Information received from Wipro sources reveals that NRC application forms are received in Dharmashala NSK regularly. However, DC (DRCR), Dhubri has been asked to enquire into the matter and to submit a factual report. All efforts will be put in place to address the issue.

Assam Tribune (15-07-15): Report published in Assam Tribune says that NRC Website developed snags. Complaints have been received against slow speed and frequent problems arising out of ‘link failure’ ‘failure to save particulars’ etc faced by the users while filling in NRC application forms online.

Our Response:
The reasons for the snag -
1. Initially, huge latency of more than 500ms observed in the Internet connection leading to slowness of the software. (“Latency” means the very tiny breaks (ranging from a fey milli seconds (ms) to 500 milliseconds) in Internet connection which leads to data loss resulting in “Oops”, “Session time-out” etc.)
2. The huge traffic of 1000+ concurrent users as the response from our esteemed applicants was very heavy.
3. Some of the software codes were giving exceptions leading to errors. This happens almost in all software applications, particularly, the heavier software.

Why could we not avert it ?
* Let us assure the public that no compromise has been done in arranging the State of the art infrastructure at all levels. All the servers including Web-Server and Database Server are of Dell make, the Database is of Oracle and the Storage is of EMC – these are some of the leading brands in the field. Inspite of putting in place such robust infrastructure the disruption has happened as the system couldn't be allowed to go through any amount of testing before opening it to the public due to the severe pressure of timelines to start Application receipt. The real load in the application could not be tested before online deployment due to lack of time as the NRC Updation process is racing against time to present the state with an updated NRC by January 2015 as directed by Honourable Supreme Court. We had to put up the system in a very short notice preventing us to do enough testing before public launch.

We would like to share that such disruptions are not unheard of. You may like to know that -
* Any IT system always goes through its own stabilization period which it takes months for the system to be stable for going live. It is a continuous improvement cycle. It is commonly noticed that even top IT giants like Microsoft, Oracle, Apple, IBM etc also go through their own development life cycle. Public must have witnessed Version upgrades from all these top IT Giants which for any software to address bugs from time to time. Similarly, upgrades are being done continuously in the NRC Online software program also.

But this can’t be an excuse to let our biggest support system, the applicants, down. We immediately got into the job and -
* Deployed technical teams across the world to address the issues. Technical teams and experts having more than 15 years of experience in Oracle, Linux, Apache are in Guwahati to analyse the issues and take corrective action. Experts across the world - more than 50 Level 2 & Level 3 software developers in India and many more domain experts of higher levels (Levels 3 & 4) globally from Oracle of USA, Red Hat of USA, and other service providers in India have been continuously working to give better service to the NRC Online clients. Performance tuning of Database and Webs Server has been done. Code review for exceptions is being done and more fine-tuning is in progress. Systems have been deployed to ensure that any exceptions in the system reported in the future are immediately addressed through bug fixes in future. Solution architects are working on design optimization for better performance.
* The system is being monitored 24x7 by technical teams onsite and offsite.

All rigorous works paid off and the present status is :
* With all the efforts, fine-tuning has been done at Database, Web Server and Application layers. Application bugs have been provided with hot fixes and bandwidth latency has also been stabilised at below 50ms. In short, we have done all possible technical advancement to improve the user experience in submitting the Application Form online. However there could be more bugs that may come up in future like in any other software, but we would want to assure you that we shall not leave any stone unturned to resolve it with minimum disruption of services.
* Indisputably, development and maintenance of the NRC Online software program has to face severe challenges due to extremely heavy loads for long periods, criticality of availability of systems, crucial data security requirements etc owing to the sensitive nature of the project. As such, the software solutions have to handle huge complexities and that too in a very short span of time. NRC authorities have deployed the best available resources for handling these issues and have been able to make a turnaround. Even in the peak days of the crisis, online applications and registrations continued as is evident from the following graph :

Lastly, the competency of any organization is not determined by the quantum of the problems generated but how quickly the turnaround is provided.

Jugasangkha (15-07-15) : Jugasangkha reports that Gaonburha in Doboka collecting money for giving certificates for which mass resentment prevailed in Doboka area. The Gaonbura named Mokhlesur Rahman of Paschim Jharuni, Namati and Kacharipara lot is reported have demended Rs. 300/-per certificate from the public. The Circle Officer, though informed has not taken any action as reported by the reporter Shri Anjan Paul, Hojai.

Our Response : All the Deputy Commissioners (DRCRs) have already been instructed to take stern action against all those who indulge in Corrupt practices. Members of the public too need to be alert and to register complaints against such government functionaries before the concerned DC/CO or with Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Branch, Govt of Assam. DC Nagaon has been asked to take appropriate action. . Appropriate corrective section absolutely be taken in the report for the Deputy Commissioner.

Doinik Agradoot Reports(15-07-15) : Aggrieved people put lock and key at Panchmile GP Office NSK in Tezpur for failure of the LRCR office to receive NRC application forms by the lone operator at the NSK. It is further reported that people of Solmara, Rupkuriya, Bhalukjharani and Baghchung villages under Napam GP are subjected to walk 16 KM to reach their NSK set up at Haleswar GP Office. The DC (DRCR) and the C.O (CRCR) have taken no action even they were apprised of the matter.

Our Response : Panchmile GP Office NSK has both the operators working in the NSK. Due to heavy public turn out on the given day, the LRCR officer and the two operators were not able to receive Forms from all applicants. Getting restless in a hurry to submit the forms, the public did try to stall the working of NSK by locking it down. However, the situation was brought under control by the Circle Officer of Tezpur by visiting the NSK to take stock of difficulties faced by the public for necessary action. Accordingly, to improve the speed of Form receive one additional Local Officer (LO) has been engaged in the said office, who has been trained urgently and put to work from 17th July 2015. Deputy Commissioner, Sonitpur has been instructed to ensure that such problems do not recur.
Regarding the report of the people of Solmara, Rupkuriya, Bhalukjharani and Baghchung villages under Napam GP are subjected to walk 16 KM to reach their NSK set up at Haleswar GP Office, it is informed that already in view of public convenience the NSK set up at Haleswar GP Office has been relocated to Napam GP NSK and also to handle the crowd at Napam, one additional operator is to be engaged at Napam GP NSK from 20th July 2015. As such the problem is already solved by district administration to ensure best of services delivery to public.

Doinik Janambhumi reports: Harrassment caused to citizens byby one Shri Swapan Kr Bora, Gaon Panchayat Secretary of Hatipukhuri GP under Rupohihat Development Block in Nagaon district in matters of issuance of migration certificates to married women for NRC purpose. Married women migrated due to marriage to and fronHatipukhuri and Behuwachalchali villages are facing problems as the said GP Secretary remains absent in his office most of the time.

Our Response: Deputy Commissioner Nagaon district has been instructed to submit a detailed factual report on the matter. Corrective action as required shall be taken based on the Report received from the Deputy Commssioner.

Janasadharan reports: 20 Bangladeshi Citizens’ declared absconders by police attempt to get themselves included in NRC in Rohinibil village under Thelamara Police Station in Sonitpur district.

Our Response: Deputy Commissioner (DRCR) & Superintendent of Police, Sonitpur district are being instructed to submit a detailed factual report on the matter. Corrective action as required shall be taken based on the Report received from the Deputy Commssioner.

Asomiya Khabar/Pratidin/Amar Asom:Reports that one Dhan Bahadur Chetri (45) of Dhemai Moupur village under Sonapur Police Station in Kamrup Metropolitan district is suspected to have jumped into river Digaru alleging a relation between the suspected incident and his failure to collect his NRC related linkage document for establishing linkage with his fatherMoti Bahadur alias Chaila Bahadur.

Our Response:Deputy Commissioner, Kamrup Metro has been asked to inquire into the reported incident immediately and to submit a factual report. Members of the public have already been notified that they should not panic for non availability of linkage documents (List B) and can still submit NRC application forms without enclosing any linkage documents as they would get ample opportunities to prove it during field verification by the Verification Team. NRC application forms will also be received in the NSKs even without linkage documents.

Amar Asom reports:Inclusion of more than twice the number of House hold stipulated against each NSK; 7000 families against the set norms of 3000 families included in some NSKs at Guwahati; NSKs getting overcrowded as those who did not collect legacy data in time are now rushing to the NSKs for legacy data. People of those districts where Deputy Commissioners performed their duties and responsibilities properly have no problems. People of the districts where Deputy Commissioners being the DRCRs did not discharge NRC related responsibilities well are only facing problems at NSKs.

Our Response: In rural areas as well as town areas of most of the districts, norms of having 2500-3000 Household per NSK have been maintained in most of the cases. However, at Guwahati, the density of being very high, maintenance of the fixed norms of accommodating 2500-3000 village-wise household per NSK has been found to be not feasible. However, additional 60 Data Entry Operators (along-with the requisite numbers of Laptops computers etc) and 86 numbers of additional Local Officers have already been deployed.

Asomiya Pratidin reports: 20 Bangladeshi Citizens’ declared absconders by police attempt to get themselves included in NRC in Rohinibil village under Thelamara Police Station in Sonitpur district.

Our Response: Deputy Commissioner (DRCR) & Superintendent of Police, Sonitpur district are being instructed to submit a detailed factual report on the matter. Corrective action as required shall be taken based on the Report received from the Deputy Commissioner.

Agradoot reports: Different procedure followed in filling up of application forms in Lahorighat area of Morigaon district. Application forms are being returned for filling up with blue ink, for not provided with House number, for not furnishing with married women certificates even if not necessary, insistence on production of affidavits for wrongly spelt/recorded names, NSKs not issuing Legacy Data presently.

Our Response: Clear procedure to be followed in respect of use of ink while filling in NRC application form is made known to all concerned. Filling up of application form in black ink is not mandatory though ideally it is advisable to use black ink instead of blue ink. What is important is to fill in the form neatly with good, legible handwriting. Providing of house number too is not mandatory in case applicants do not generally use it in their address. Production of certificates from GP Secretary /Circle Officer/Executive Magistrate is not mandatory in case a woman applicant provides other valid documents to prove her eligibility/ linkage. Married women can establish linkage as required with any other valid documents also. Affidavits in support of wrongly spelt names etc, if any, may also be produced by the applicants before the verifying team during Verification Phase. Enclosing of affidavits along with the application is also not mandatory. Public were invited and requested to collect their documents including legacy data starting 27th March and continuously thereafter through news paper advertisements in as many as 33 local dailies published in different languages. It is therefore, reasonable to expect that it may not be possible for NSKs now to devote much time in issuing legacy data ignoring the task of receipt of application forms. Deputy Commissioner, Morigaon has been instructed afresh to follow the procedure in receipt of application forms as stipulated. Corrective action as required shall be taken based on the Report received from the Deputy Commissioner.

Amar Asom/Niyamiya Barta reports: Stagnancy in NSK at Madhya Sualkuchi in Kamrup district. Only one Computer is functional against 8ooo households. Household under the NSK is 3714, increased to 8419 on transfer from other NSKs. One of the computers is out of order. LRCR’s request to CRCR/DRCR for redressal of the problems remains un acceded to.

Our Response: All the Deputy Commissioners have already been instructed to undertake rationalization of resources including mobilization of additional resources in the NSKs under their districts as and where necessary. Deputy Commissioners concerned and the System Integrator (Wipro) have been directed once again to take required action to redress the issue.

Asomiya Pratidin reports: Darrang district Police arrested 3 racketeers of fake birth certificates and other certificates manufactured for use of NRC purpose and seized many seals, incriminating documents from their possession under the leadership of Mangaldoi Sadar P.S Town Sub-Inspector Shri Ranjit Hazarika. The computer used for the manufacturing of fake documents by the racketeers is yet to be seized. Another member of the gang is absconding. The racketeers are suspected to have continued this illegal trade of issuance of fake certificates as legacy documents for NRC for months and are doing a brisk business. The report says that police will be able to unearth the nexus and to nab the main culprits behind the clandestine activities only if a sincere and sustained investigating effort is made by them.

Our Response: Darrang Police has done a commendable job. In view of various news items appearing about availability of such fake certificates in the market purportedly to be used for the purpose of NRC updating, all the Deputy Commissioners have already been directed to take prompt and stern action against such racketeers of fake document manufacturers. Adequate publicity has also been given to the telephone number of Vigilance and Anti Corruption Branch of Govt. of Assam. Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police of all the districts are to take similar action against such racketeers of fake certificates/documents wherever found and to ensure taking of stern legal action to punish the culprits.

Assam Tribune reports: People of Majirgaon Gaon Panchayat area under Azara Revenue Circle in Kamrup Metropolitan District expressed concern over establishment of an NRC Seva Kendra at the residence of the President of the GP despite existence of a permanent GP office building. The people are facing problems in collecting legacy data from the NSK and also in submitting forms in the NSK set up at the GP Secretary’s house. The GP Secretary is reportedly receiving house rent of Rs.8000/-pm. DC/Circle Officer concerned approached but to no avail.

Our Response: Deputy Commissioners (DRCRs) are responsible for setting up NSKs in their respective districts in suitable premises preference being given to house NSKs at government buildings as available. DC (DRCR), Kamrup Metropolitan District has been asked to enquire the matter and to submit a factual report.

Assam Tribune reports: Immense enthusiasm for filling up of NRC Application Forms amongst the people in lower Assam specially in Bodo/Adibasi/Nepali and other Communities. Festive atmosphere prevail centering around filling up of NRC forms in many remote and inaccessible areas of Assam Meghalaya border. People are coming out spontaneously to extend help and assistance in filling up of the NRC application forms to the poor, illiterate and the common people of their neighbourhood without any support from the district administration.

Our Response: Hats off!! Congratulations and greetings to Gaonburha Dhiresh Basumatary of Dadgiri village district, Filiman Tudu of Bengtal and Pharmacist Prem Prasad Upadhyaya of Gorubhasa of Chirang district, Sangku Ghosh Dastidar of Bongaigaon and Pranab Rabha of Kamrup district and all their team members from NRC authority. They, including those smart students rendering yeomen service to the common people during their Summer Vacation deserve immense praise from all of us. Wish, other learned fellow residents and teacher and the student community would also take a leaf out of their books and offer support and assistance to all those who need help and thereby make useful contribution to making of an error free NRC!

Asomiya Khabar reports:The media report says that duplicate/fake birth certificates of Kathiyatoli Primary Health Centre in Nagaon district are making brisk business in the said locality, which allegedly has bearing on updating of NRC exercise in the state. One Jamaluuddin a relative of the member of ward no 2 of Juripara Gaon Panchayat is involved in the racket.

Our Response: Deputy Commissioners of all the districts have already been instructed to prevent recurrence of such corrupt practices in their respective districts. The DC concerned is once again asked to enquire into the alleged act of issuance of fake birth certificates in her district. People also need to realize that they cannot get their names included in updated NRC by submitting such manufactured documents and use of such illegal documents might land them into litigations/troubles.

Amar Asom reports: Lack of adequate infrastructure in most of the NSKs in the state. Unhygienic conditions prevail in and around the NSKs; Insufficient deployment of manpower and other resources; no separate provisions for women & senior citizens; applicants made to stand in queue for 6-7 hours to submit forms etc.

Our Response: : 2500 NRC Seva Kendras (NSKs) are set up across the state, each covering on an average of 2500 households. The NSKs are set up mostly at government buildings. For this purpose, the Gaon Panchayat Offices are used as these are the locations mostly known to the people of a village. In urban areas other government offices are used and in some cases also rented accommodations as per identification and recommendation of Deputy Commissioners. Each NSK has been equipped to issue Legacy Data and receive Application Forms. All these NSKs are equipped with 2 laptops, 2 scanners, 1 generator, 2 extra screens to allow the public to keep checking whatever is being searched or entered by the operator. In some places, wherever required, 2 generators have been provided. 2 Computer Operators and officers appointed as Local Registrar of Citizen Registration (LRCR) and Local Officers are also deployed at the NSKs. However, we are aware that in spite of putting in place adequate infrastructure and logistics there are places where issues of over-crowding are coming up. This has mainly happened due to people still visiting NSKs to obtain Legacy Data, whereas Legacy Data publication was started across the state in March itself. As such, when the NSKs were prepared at this moment to receive public visiting NSKs to submit applications, there is also a section of crowd still visiting NSKs to obtain Legacy Data Code, which is leading to overcrowding at places. Moreover, the overwhelming enthusiastic response of public is also a factor in this regards. Though it was an unexpected scenario in initial days, now the situation has come under control in most NSKs. In the NSKs of Guwahati, which encountered overcrowding for last few days, an effective queue management system is now put in place, which has been successful in addressing the problem. The Deputy Commissioners of districts as District Registrars of Citizen Registration and Circle Officers as Circle Registrars of Citizen Registration are responsible to provide all facilities to public to take part in the NRC updation process. These authorities may be approached on any denial of service or in inconvenience in taking part in the process All the Deputy Commissioners/DRCRs have been instructed to provide minimum basic facilities in all the NSKs within their districts and to improve the conditions of the NSKs to ameliorate the inconvenience faced by the people. They have also been directed to make special arrangements for women and senior citizens coming to the NSKs for submission of NRC forms wherever required. It may be noted that as the operations at NSKs are temporary in nature (lasting over a period of a few months) and that there is a requirement to evenly cover huge geographical area, planning has to be made economically. As such, there may be a few locations where gaps might appear in arrangements of logistics and and provision of facilities for officers, operators or the public. However, arrangements have also been made to enable the public to submit NRC application form ‘online’ sitting at home or through centres having Internet availability viz. Common Service Centres established under Govt. Since updating of NRC, Assam is our collective responsibility, all of us need to appreciate and bear the limitations and do our best to make this a successful process for our state and generations to come.

DainikJanambhumi / Amar Asom / AsomiyaKhabarReports: Reports have been published that due to complexity of the NRC process, one Angat Sutradhar (57) committed suicide at Pakoriguri village under Salbari Police in BAKSA district.

Our Response: : The matter is enquired into and a report is soon to be received from Deputy Commissioner, which will be shared in this space for information. Members of the public have already been notified through different media that they should not pay heed to any rumours being spread by certain vested interest regarding exclusion of names of genuine residents of the state for want of documents. Wide publicity has also been given through print/electronic/social media that people can submit application forms without any linkage certificates/documents, which they can furnish during verification phase as and where required. Genuine citizens of the state need not panic and get provoked even if they fail to collect documents before the closure date for submission of their forms. Adequate opportunity shall be made available to all the citizens to prove their eligibility for inclusion in the updated NRC during verification and also after publication of Draft NRC through receipt and disposal of “Claims & Objections”. Public have also been told repeatedly through our advertisements and field level meetings with the public/community that Legacy Data availability is not essential. Eligibility for inclusion in updated NRC can still be established through other documents. NRC authorities are also enjoined to include in the updated NRC all “original inhabitants of Assam who are Indian citizens”.

AsomiyaKhabar/DainikAgradoot Reports: The media report says that anomaly occurs in issuance of two legacy data against a single individual in Gosaingaon Sahar, ward no 3 of Kokrajhar district creating confusion in the minds of the people as to which one of the two legacy data code slips is genuine and which is not. The media report also expresses concern about the correctness of NRC updated on the basis of such legacy data.

Our Response: : People need not be concerned or confused with such things as the system might generate two different Legacy Data Code slips against the same person due to multiple occurrence of the name of the person in the various sources of data such as occurrence of somebody’s name in 1951 NRC, 1952 Electoral Roll, 1961 Electoral Roll, 196 Electoral Roll, 1971 Electoral Roll etc. It may be noted that multiple codes or multiple occurrences do not materially alter the eligibility of any person for inclusion in the updated NRC. Even if an individual gets two such legacy data codes, both are legacy of the same record and as such both are genuine and either of the two could be usedfor NRC purpose. The sanctity and correctness of the updated NRC will not be affected by such things as both the legacy data code will refer to one and the same person identity of whom is ascertainable on the basis of his/her other recorded personal attributes.

Asomiya Khabar /Amar Asom/The Sentinel/The Assam Tribune reports: Assam Sahitya Sabha has called for direct inclusion of the names of all original inhabitants of Assam in the NRC. The Sabha will move the Supreme Court on the issue of NRC updating process. The sabha reiterated that they want NRC to be updated as per the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s directives.

Our Response: : Rule 3(3) of The Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003, provides for including “original inhabitants of Assam” in the updated NRC. Steps have been taken to ensure that this provision is utilized effectively to include all the original inhabitants of Assam.

Asomiya Khabar/Juga Sankha Reports: Reports have been published that NSKs in Kamrup Metro district are not properly managed. Lots of overcrowding taking place at NSKs, insufficient man-power that might lead to skipping of the deadline for submission of NRC Application Forms etc.

Our Response: : Deputy Commissioner of Kamrup Metro has already been instructed to ensure providing of 86 additional Local Officers as approved by the SCNR (State Coordinator, NRC) immediately to strengthen the statutory officials at these NSKs. Similarly, 60 nos of Additional Operators along with the required hardware i.e laptop, scanner etc have also been deployed in these NSKs. Instructions have been issued to provide preferential treatment to senior citizens at the NSKs.

Asomiya Protidin/Doinik Agradoot Reports: Some people at Merapani area of Golaghat District are trying to submit NRC Application Forms enclosing fake birth certificates and false certificates in respect of married women with similar names for multiple persons issued from authorities in Nagaland.

Our Response: : Deputy Commissioner of Golaghat District has been asked to conduct an enquiry into the matter immediately and to take corrective action. The concerned DC is also instructed to take up the matter with his Nagaland counterpart forthwith. All certificates and documents submitted will be verified before considering any person’s inclusion in updated NRC. So no such cases will eventually be benifitted for adopting unlawful means. Any official found guilty of issuing any fake certificate shall be dealt with sternly.

Asomiya Khobor/Aamar Asom reports:

Allegation levelled against unscrupulous groups (1) at hospitals in Sualkuchi involved in collecting money from public against issuing of birth certificates in Bamundi (Kamrup) (2) for issuing certificates to marriedwomen in Bilasipara (Dhubri).

Our Response:

Instructions have been issued to Deputy Commissioner, Kamrup and Dhubri to enquire into the matter and take necessary action in case report of any such corrupt practice is found to be true. Instructions were earlier been issued toall the Deputy Commissioners to sternly deal with any instance of corrupt practices indulged in by any of the Government functionaries like FLOs, Gaonburhas, Lot-Mandals, GP Secretaries etc. working under their respective districts in course of facilitating issuance of Birth Certificates/married women certificates etc. The members of the public are already notified through “Public Notices” published in various local dailies in different languages to register complaints against Government/private officials, if found indulging in corrupt practices with the concerned Circle Officers/ Deputy Commissioners and/or through NRC helpline number 15107/ Vigilance & Anti Corruption Branch phone number 0361-2462295.

Dainik Jugasankha reports: Shortage of Application Forms; harassment of general public against issuing of certificate for married women; Overcrowding at the NSKs; malfunctioning of NSKs; receipt of Applications outside designated NSK area in Borkhola (Cachar).

Our Response: Deputy Commissioner Cachar has been directed afresh to look into the matter and take corrective steps. Similar instructions are also issued to the Deputy Commissioners of other districts to take corrective action on these issues.

Aamar Asom reports::

1) Lack of instructions in NRC Application Form
2) Lack of Categorization for students against occupational activity status in NRC Application Forms (Lakhimpur)
3) Business in the name of collection of documents by Gaonburha in Barnarddi (Nalbari)
4) Poor infrastructure of NSKs (Bongaigaon/Sibasagar); Irregular supply of electricity hampering the process of Application Receipt at NSKs (Bongaigaon); Overcrowding at NSKs (Bongaigaon); Lack of facilities for senior citizens (Guwahati)
5) Rumours making people fearful (Lakhimpur)
6) Failure of NRC Helpline to provide adequate information to the public (Nalbari)

Our Response:

1) Detailed instructions as to filling up of the form is printed in the body of the NRC Application Form itself at SIDE D. Additional instruction sheets named as “National Register of Citizens Updation Application Form Fill Up Made Easy” elaborating question-wise information to be furnished have also been printed and enclosed along with the NRC Application Form, and distributed house to house. In addition to these, the following measures have been taken to create awareness on overall process of updating of NRC.

a) Multiple rounds Print Advertisements published in as many as 33 local dailies in languages such as – English, Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Bodo, Nepali, Karbi on how to collect documents and how to fill up NRC Application Form. A fictitious family of Chandra Sarma is created to demonstrate in series how this family collects all required documents and fill up the NRC Application Form.

b) Electronic Media covering as many as 18 TV/Radio Channels and Cinema Halls on how to collect documents, how to fill up the application form, where to access the video tutorials on application form filling up.

c) Gram Sabha/ward level meetings are conducted across the state where take away leaflets are distributing detailing question-wise form fill up tips, demonstration of filled up form of fictitious Chandra Sarma family. Starting February, 2015, so far over 2,981 Community Level Meetings organised across Assam at GP, Ward level on Application Distribution and Receipt phase reaching out to over 2,22,706 people.

d) On receiving public feedback that the Side C of the Form is not very easy to fill up, we have printed the Side C in bulk as “Practice Sheets” as distributed among public. It is publicized through 33 newspapers across the state that such practice sheets are available at NSKs for any person to collect.

e) Social Media Campaign is launched through Facebook, Twitter, YouTube.

f) Video Tutorials are prepared in 6 parts. Part 1 gives an introduction to the NRC process. Part 2 details the process of document collection. Part 3, Part 4, Part 5 and Part 6 respectively details the entire process of filling up Side A, Side B, Side C and Side D of the Application Form with help of the example of an imaginary family of Chandra Sarma. The Videos are played in community meetings, and also made available in the website of NRC, Assam as well as in YouTube. It’s published in the website of NRC, Assam that anybody interested in obtaining a copy of the CD of video tutorials may contact the Office of the State Coordinator. e) All DCs of the state have also been instructed to ensure developing a team of resource personscomprising of school/college teachers, students and line chowkidars and Tea Garden welfare officers from the Tea Garden in filling up the Application Form in order to extend assistance to the illiterate persons or to anybody who needs such assistance.

g) The SPMU Office has set up a help desk in all working days in two shifts so as to impart hands-on training on filling up of both hard copy as well as onlineNRC application form and also to issue legacy data code slips from which the local residents of the city have largely benefitted.

2) There are SIX specified categories under the head occupational activity/profession, against Q.No 4c as given in the footnote below the Application Form in SIDE A. There is another indicative category, called “OTHERS” under Q4c against which, students and any other similar category of applicant can put in their information.

3) The Deputy Commissioners of all 27 districts have been given standing instructions to deal firmly with any of the Government functionaries like FLOs, Gaonburhas, Lot-Mandals, GP Secretaries etc. who indulge in such corrupt practices. Further, all the DCs have also been instructed to report cases of serious nature directly to Vigilance and Anti Corruption Branch of the Government of Assam. The members of the public are already notified through “Public Notice” Advertisements in 33 local dailies in different languages to register complaints against Government/private officials, if found indulging in corrupt practices with the concerned Circle Officers/ Deputy Commissioners and/or through NRC helpline number 15107/ Vigilance & Anti Corruption Branch phone number 0361-2462295. Deputy Commissioner Nalbari has been directed to enquire into this matter and take appropriate action against the concerned Gaonburha if found guilty.

4) Most of the NSKs in the rural areas are accommodated in existing Gaon Panchayat Offices. In urban areas, NSKs are set up in Government buildings as available and in rented accommodation. Every NSK is provided with a generator with fuel for uninterrupted power supply so that the application receipt process is carried out smoothly.In NSKs with poor power supply additional generators are also provided. Apart from that, laptops, printers, scanners, office consumables, furniture, fans, two operators, one LRCR, one Local Officer (LO) per NSK in minimum have been provided. Also, additional manpower resources are being deployed in the NSKs wherever necessary. To avoid overcrowding at NSKs, a mechanism to regulate per day receipt of a reasonable number of Applications Forms was devised in the districts. Moreover, submission of NRC Application Forms online through NRC web-site by the applicants has also been facilitated, through which more and more applicants have successfully submitted their Application Forms onlinewithout any hassles. Instructions have been issued already to provide out of turn facilities at all the 2,500 NSKs for the senior citizens.

5) All required information connected with updating of NRC including admissible documents as LIST A & B have been notified to the public through Print/Electronic Media rigorously. Members of the public have continuously been urged through Print Media, IEC materials not to pay heed to any kind of rumours with regard to admissibility or otherwise of any of the stipulated documents for inclusion in the updated NRC. They were also requested to bring instances of any rumour mongering/misinformation to the notice of the concerned District Magistrate/SP and to inform NRC authorities by calling at NRC Helpline 15107/ or through NRC Assam web-site. In addition to that, concerned Deputy Commissioners have been directed to take action in such matters to instill confidence and to allay the fears from the minds of the people.

6) The NRC authority has increased the strength of the Call Center from 105 to 180 with additional manpower resources of 75 agents/executives to meet the growing numbers of calls received from the public noticed recently. Soon after Application Receipt phase commenced, the Call Center received as high as 27,000 calls from the public on a single day. Since most of the callers insist on providing them information regarding filling up of each and every column of the NRC Application Form, each conversation continues for as long as 20 minutes, making it difficult to handle timely the heavy load of calls. However, Call Center agents have been briefed suitably and arrangements are also being made to further increase the strength of the agents to cater to the growing needs of the public. It is also worth mentioning here that receipt of on average 20,000 calls every day, and with the number increasing everyday it may also be inferred that the information provided through the NRC Helpline has largely been able to cater to the need of the people and hence the popularity.

Asomiya Khobor reports:

I) What will be the fate of those Assamese people and people from other states of India, who is settled in Assam for the past few decades but doesn’t have either Legacy Data or any other documents?

II) Reportedly there is another group of people who doesn’t have any documents (Legacy Data & Other admissible documents & linkage documents) to claim proof of eligibility for inclusion in the updated NRC due to miserable circumstances.

Our Response:

(I) Person coming from outside the state and person who are originally inhabitants of Assam and their children or descendants who are citizens of India staying in place other than the state of Assam upto 24th March (midnight). 1971, may apply for inclusion in NRC by giving their particulars against Q. 12 in Side D of the NRC Application Form. However, documents to be submitted by people coming from outside the state are yet to be specified by RGI. As of now, they would not be included in the updated NRC, although Govt of Assam has requested Govt of India to include such categories of persons.

(II) All residents are eligible to apply for inclusion in NRC. However, one’s eligibility will have to be established by adducing any ONE of the 14 admissible documents in LIST A and appropriate linkage document as and where required as stipulated by RGI.

Asomiya Pratidin reports: NRC Updation should be done in a simplified way and not in a complicated way.

Our Response: The updating of NRC process has already been made simplified as far as practicable. The Legacy Data has been made available in all the 2,500 NSKs, at all the notified Polling Stations and in the web-site. A person need not go to his place of origin to obtain his Legacy Data as it can be accessed from anywhere. Massive media campaign has been carried out to reach out to the people in the form of:-

1) Print Advertisements published in as many as 33 local dailies in languages such as – English, Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, Bodo, Nepali, Karbi.

2) Electronic Media covering as many as 18 TV/Radio Channels and Cinema Halls.

3) Social Media – Facebook, Twitter, YouTube

4) Dissemination ofinformation in the form of IEC materials like Leaflets, Flipcharts, CDs containing Audio/Video Tutorials with illustration as to how a imaginary family of Shri Chandra Sarma collected, arranged and used documents as necessary to fill up the NRC Application Form for the benefit of the public.

5) All DCs of the state have also been instructed to ensure developing a team of resource persons in order to extend assistance to the people, especially the underprivileged, in filling up the Application Form.

6) This apart, capacity building of School/college teachers, students and line chowkidars and Tea Garden welfare officers from the Tea Garden areas are trained to educate the public at large.

7) Over 8,500 Community Level Meetings have been conducted.

8) The SPMU office has set up a help desk in all working days in two shifts so as to impart training on NRC Updating process as well to help fill up the Application Form, from which the local residents of the city have largely benefitted.

Amar Asom/Dainik Jugasankha reports: Some of the NSKs in Guwahati reportedly starts functioning at 10.45 to 11.00 am and there is no seating arrangements, fans etc. for the public.

Our Response: The working hours of the NSKs are scheduled from 10.00 am to 5 pm. NSKs are made well equipped with required number of computers, laptops, scanners and printers including a generator. Provisions for providing minimum facilities at NSKs like fans, seating arrangements are being made.

The Telegraph Northeast reports: Confusion prevails over NRC update of jail inmates in Assam in absence of clear-cut instructions from the state government.

Our Response: The matter is being taken up with RGI for further instructions.

The Telegraph Northeast/ The Times of India/Amar Asom/Asomiya Khobor reports:: Assam’s orphans stare at NRC exclusion

Our Response: For inmates of institutional homes, orphanages, home for mentally and physically handicapped persons, old age homes etc, the head of the institution shall have to apply for inclusion of the names of the inmates of their respective institutions. This information has already been disseminated to the members of the public through various Newspaper advertisements and through distribution of the IEC materials in Community Level Meetings across Assam in addition to publishing it though electronic media such as TV Channels, Radio, web-site and Cinema halls etc.



The Sentinel reports: ABSU seeks NRC Forms in Bodo to be distributed in all Bodo populated districts.

Our Response: NRC Application Forms have been made available in Bodo language in BTC districts viz – Baksa, Chirang, Udalguri and Kokrajhar. Application Forms in Bodo language are also available for download in the web-site.

Asomiya Khabar Reports: FLOs at South Salmara demand money for NRC Application Forms.

Our Response: Massive campaign in Print media as much as in 33 local dailies published in English, Assamese, Bengali, Hindi, Bodo, Karbi , Nepali languages and also in Electronic media as much as in 18 TV & Radio channels including cinema halls across the State have been launched for disseminating information to general public to the effect that NRC Application Forms are supplied to the people free of cost, that people can use photocopies of blank application forms and also can use forms downloaded from NRC website. All the Deputy Commissioners (DRCRs) have also been instructed to sternly deal with any instances of corrupt practices indulged in by any of the Government functionaries like FLOs, Gaonburhas, Lot-Mandals, GP Secretaries etc. working under their respective districts including reporting cases of serious nature directly to Vigilance and Anti Corruption Branch of the Government of Assam. The members of the public are already notified through “Public Not ice” Advertisements in 33 local dailies in different languages to register complaints against Government/private officials, if found indulging in corrupt practices with the concerned Circle Officers/ Deputy Commissioners and/or through NRC helpline number 15107/ Vigilance & Anti Corruption Branch phone number 0361-2462295.

Amar Asom reports: Irregularities in NRC works, collection of money for NRC application forms/ certificates.

Our Response: The members of the public have already been notified that they are entitled to get forms/certificates free of cost and also to register complaints with the concerned CO/DCs against any Government/private functionaries indulging in corrupt practices/irregularities, while distributing forms/issuing certificates etc. to the public. The NRC works are going on smoothly and people across the state have submitted over 3, 83,000 duly filled in NRC Application Forms both offline and online

Dainik Jugasankha reports: Dearth of workers, problems with computers for which submission of NRC application forms will be impossible within 31st July, 2015.

Our Response: A large number of manpower are directly working in the process of receipt of NRC Application Forms at 2,500 NSKs across the State and accordingly have deployed 5,000 operators, 5,000 laptop computers and Scanner-cum-Printers (at the rate of 2 operators, 2 laptop computers and 2 Scanner-cum-Printers per NSK). Moreover, there are additional manpower in the form of Local Officers deployed by Government to assist the 2,500 Local registrars of Citizen Registration (LRCRs) in the process of receipt of application forms. Additional resources will be deployed as and where required to receive NRC application forms within the stipulated time.

Dainik Agradoot Reports:

1)GaonBurah, GP Secretary allegedly collecting money for issuing certificates/ documents to the public.

2) People are harassed by LRCR office/NSK during submission of forms.

3) Legacy data of Dharmapur LAC not available in Web-site.

4) DC Nagaon is indifferent to the problems faced by the public with regard to filling up of NRC forms/ unscrupulous elements and touts collecting money from helpless and ignorant persons in the name of providing documents and service etc. in connection with Updation of NRC.

5)Rumours are spread that Ration Card, Bank A/Cs, LIC etc. documents are not acceptable and even people will be shot dead if legacy/linkage cannot be furnished.

Our Response:

(1) Massive campaign in Print media as much as in 33 local dailies published in English, Assamese, Bengali, Hindi, Bodo, Karbi , Nepali languages and also in Electronic media / TV channels including cinema halls across the state have been launched for disseminating information to general public to the effect that NRC Application Forms are supplied to the people free of cost, that people can use photocopies of blank application forms and also can use forms downloaded from NRC web-site. All the Deputy Commissioners (DRCRs) have also been instructed to sternly deal with any instances of corrupt practices indulged in by any of the Government functionaries like FLOs, Gaonburhas, Lot- Mandals, GP Secretaries etc working under their respective Districts including reporting cases of serious nature directly to Vigilance and Anti Corruption Branch of the Government of Assam. The members of the public are already notified through “Public Notice” Advertisements in 33 local dailies in different languages to register complaints against Government/private officials, if found indulging incorrupt practices with the concerned Circle Officers/ Deputy Commissioners and/or through NRC helpline phone number 15107/ Vigilance & Anti Corruption Branch phone number 0361-2462295.

2. Comprehensive instructions and detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for receipt process have already been sent to the DCs for implementation. Detailed training modules/take away IEC materials were also provided to all the DRCRs for use of the LRCRs working under all the DCs (DRCRs). Rigorous public awareness and sensitization campaigns through print and electronic media with regard to each and every phase of the NRC Updation process so far have also been launched for the benefit of the Field Level functionaries as well as for the community. Members of the public have also been urged to submit NRC Application Forms online as far as practicable sitting at home.

3. The Legacy data as available have been published and made available in all the NSKs and also in the NRC web-site. Even if one’s own name or name of his / her parents or ancestors are not found in legacy data, he or she can still apply for inclusion in NRC by providing any of the other 12 admissible documents enlisted in List A.

4. All DCs (DRCRs) are statutory authorities for updating NRC in their respective districts. The detailed instructions as to their role, responsibilities and functions in relation to updating of NRC Assam have been issued to them from time to time. Hon’ble CM, Assam has directed for issue of instructions to all DCs and field functionaries of Revenue & Disaster Management Department, Education Department to providing support to ongoing process of NRC Updation taken up by the Government of India. .

5. Members of the public have already been sensitized through advertisements in print media/ Community level meetings that adequate opportunity will be given to them for proving their eligibility for inclusion in the updated NRC. Whenever application for inclusion in updated NRC, 1951 of any person is likely to be rejected, the matter will be sent to the Deputy Commissioner with intimation to the said person before the same is published in draft NRC. This will give enough time and opportunity to the person to collect all documents or build up his case in the best possible manner to file his case as “claim” after publication of Draft NRC. It may be noted that opportunity would also be available at the time of draft publication wherein claims for inclusion in updated NRC, 1951 can be submitted. It is re-iterated that not a single genuine Indian citizen who is eligible for inclusion in the updated NRC, 1951 shall be left out. Enough opportunity shall be provided to each and every person to establish his/ her case. Public is requested not to pay heed to rumour mongers and also to bring any such instances wherever taking place to the notice of the concerned District Magistrate/SP. The Deputy Commissioners have also been instructed to convey this message in amongst the public and to take stern action against such persons indulging in mischief and rumour mongering.

Asomiya Pratidin reports: Employees engaged for NRC works in Darrang/Udalguri/Dhing etc, places are on strike demanding enhancement of remuneration.

Our Response: The issue has already been taken up with WIPRO, with whom the employees are in contractual agreement. The issue is reportedly resolved amicably between the two parties and NRC works continue unhampered.

Pratidin Reports: People belonging to Tea Community be included all and sundry as demanded by AATSA. Sent Memorandum to His Excellency, the Governor of Assam.

Our Response: AATSA’s memorandum on this issue has already been sent to RGI with recommendation for relaxed requirements for their inclusion. Already about 89.5% of the people in tea garden areas have got names of their ancestors (or themselves) in the 1951 NRC or Electoral Rolls published upto 24thMarch (Midnight), 1971 (usually referred to as Legacy Data). It is hoped that the Tea tribe people will be able to get their names included in the NRC without any difficulty.

Sentinel Reports: ABSU calls for 36 hour hunger strike demanding NRC Forms in Bodo

Our Response: As per reference made to RGI for consideration immediately after receipt of the ABSU’s demand, RGI has accepted the proposal for printing NRC Application Forms in Bodo, which will be made available shortly. The issue now stands resolved.

Amar Asom Reports: People coming from other States are to apply for inclusion giving residential proof in places other than Assam prior to 1971.

Our Response: All residents are eligible to apply for inclusion. State Government has already taken up this issue with RGI and MHA for inclusion of Indian citizens coming from other states and a decision is expected soon. However, the matter of their inclusion and in case, such inclusion is accepted, the documents to be submitted for such inclusion are yet to be specified by RGI.