Q548. Getting Nativity certificate

in Surat, India . . .

Question: Hello, I came to India in November and at end of November - Diwali time i applied for Nativity Certificate in Surat - Bahumadi building office. After that my relative in India supplied all necessary document but they keep telling us try after 2 week etc. We are fed up and would like to make complain as i feel officer in charge is perhaps trying to get some money by delaying, although has not asked for it. Please advice and oblige. Thank you. I am in UK at present and applied for my wife Rattan Mistry . B. J. Mistry Answer: The easiest way to get answers these days from government offices is Right to Information (RTI). Sometimes even a hint to the clerk handling your file, that your intention is to file an RTI to get information on your application will bring results. The government of India has RTI procedure in place, specifically to stop corruption in government offices. It is now easier for NRIs to now use RTI to get information on their applications that are sometimes held up by workers, either due to poor work ethics or expectation of bribes. RTI can now be filled on-line and it costs only Rs. 10 to file. The application and payment can also be made on- line. More detailed information on how NRIs can file a RTI application and pay for it can be viewed by clicking the link provided below: http://www.nriinformation.com/nri_guide/rti.htm