Thiruvananthapuram, February 23, 2026 – The Kerala Legislative Assembly has passed the Nativity Card Bill, introducing a new official document to help residents prove their connection to the state. This move comes as national discussions on identity and citizenship create tension across India.


The Kerala Cabinet approved the bill on Wednesday, February 18, paving the way for its quick passage in the Assembly on Monday. Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal called it a "historic moment." He said the card aims to protect minority communities and make it easier for people to prove their identity and residency without hassle.


Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlighted this need last month. He stressed that no one in Kerala should struggle to show who they are or where they live, especially with ongoing national debates over citizenship rules.

Who Qualifies for the Nativity Card?


The government defines a "native of Kerala" simply and clearly:

  • Someone born in Kerala.

  • A person with at least one ancestor (like a parent or grandparent) born in the state.

  • Individuals born outside Kerala if their parents were working elsewhere at the time, as long as they have not taken foreign citizenship.

The Nativity Card will follow the same rules as the existing nativity certificate. It acts like an official ID to confirm long-term ties to Kerala.

Opposition Boycotts, BJP Criticizes


The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) boycotted the Assembly session. Balagopal accused them of skipping debates to stir controversy instead of joining the process. With no opposition present, the bill passed without discussion.


The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) slammed the move as "dangerous separatist politics." They worry it could divide people along state lines.

Other Bills Passed on the Same Day


The Assembly also approved three other bills smoothly:

  • Abkari (Amendment) Bill, 2026 (related to liquor laws).

  • Kerala Advocates’ Clerks Welfare Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2026.

  • Kerala Advocates’ Welfare Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2026.

Subject committee reports were reviewed, and proposed changes were accepted.

This Nativity Card is Kerala's response to wider national issues on identity proofs. It seeks to simplify life for locals while sparking debate on state versus national priorities. More details will emerge as the government rolls it out.