Shillong: Block Development Officers in East Khasi Hills now hold the power to act as Executive Magistrates. Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal signed the order to streamline how the region handles birth and death paperwork. This move shifts authority from the district headquarters in Shillong down to the local block level.
BDOs will now oversee registrations, corrections, cancellations, and delayed filings within their borders. Baranwal noted the change focuses on faster results for citizens. He stated the decision aims "to ensure the timely disposal of cases and improve efficiency."
Residents must now take their requests directly to their local Block Development Offices. The directive relies on Section 13(3) of the Registration of Births and Deaths Act of 1969 and the Meghalaya rules from 1999. The new rules take effect immediately and stay in force until further notice.
Comments