The Delhi Caste Certificate, issued by the Revenue Department, serves as official proof of social status. Know the application process, benefits, and more.
Delhi Caste Certificate Overview
A Delhi Caste Certificate serves as a crucial legal document issued by the government, attesting to an individual’s belonging to a specific caste within the recognized categories of Schedule Caste or Scheduled Tribe. It plays a pivotal role in acknowledging the religious and community affiliations of citizens, providing them with official recognition. The certificate not only delineates the person’s caste but also holds significance in availing various affirmative action policies and entitlements facilitated by the government. The issuance process involves verification of the applicant’s background to ensure the accuracy and legitimacy of the claimed caste status, thereby contributing to the fair and equitable distribution of benefits among diverse sections of society.
Caste Certificate Delhi Highlights
In Delhi, a caste certificate is a formal document issued by the government to individuals delineating their affiliation with specific castes and communities. This certificate serves as definitive proof of their social status and plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to a range of governmental initiatives, including reservations, quotas, scholarships, and other benefits tailored for respective communities. The issuance of this certificate underscores the commitment to fostering equal opportunities and empowerment, aligning with the government’s objective to ensure fair and just distribution of resources and privileges across diverse segments of society.
Purpose of Obtaining Caste Certificate
As mentioned earlier, a caste certificate primarily benefits individuals belonging to reserved categories, including scheduled castes and scheduled tribes, by enabling access to the following advantages:
- Submission of a caste certificate is a prerequisite for securing reserved seats in legislative bodies.
- The caste certificate is a vital document for obtaining reservation in government services.
- It is mandatory for waiving off admission fees in schools or colleges.
- This document may be required to avail quotas in educational institutions.
- When applying for government jobs, the caste certificate is mandatory to secure age relaxation.
- Students can utilize this certificate to qualify for specific scholarships sponsored by the government.
- The caste certificate is compulsory for receiving government subsidies and applying for certain schemes provided by the government.
To avail these privileges, residents of Delhi belonging to SC/ST/OBC categories must possess a valid caste certificate.
Eligibility Criteria
Detailed eligibility criteria for obtaining a caste certificate in Delhi are outlined below:
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of Delhi
- The applicant should belong to a caste officially recognised as Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, or Other Backward Class by the Government of India
- Documentary proof for the recognized caste must be available and provided along with the application
- If the applicant or their family has migrated from a different state, proof of the caste certificate from the previous state is mandatory
- The applicant must not possess a similar caste certificate from any other state or union territory
- The applicant must be a citizen of India
- The individual should not hold a similar certificate from any other state
Online Application Process for Caste Certificate Delhi
To apply for a caste certificate online in Delhi, visit the official website of the relevant department, such as the Revenue Department or the local SDM office. Create an account, fill out the online application form with accurate details, and upload necessary documents, including proof of identity, address, and caste. Pay the applicable fees, track your application status, and, upon approval, collect the caste certificate from the designated office. Ensure you follow the latest guidelines and check for any updates on the official website, as procedures may change. Another easy way is to get it done through Vakilsearch. We offer an easy process to get your caste certificate online.
Documents Required
The following documents are required For SC/ST Certificate:
- Application Form
- Aadhaar Number or alternative identity proof (PAN, Passport, Driving Licence, Voters Card)
- Copy of SC/ST certificate of father, sister, brother, or blood relative from the paternal side.
- Self-declaration (for certificates issued outside Delhi, with a specific format for minors below 18 years)
- Marriage Certificate (for married women)
- Present residential proof (Voters Card, Water Bill, Electricity Bill, Telephone Bill, etc.)
- Proof of Date of Birth (School certificate, Birth certificate, Passport)
- If SC/ST certificate of a family member is unavailable, two government employees must certify the applicant’s permanent residency in Delhi and their SC/ST caste, along with attested copies of their identity cards.
For OBC Certificate (Additional Documents):
- Copy of OBC certificate of father, brother, sister, or blood relative from the paternal side (if available)
- Two attestations by MP/MLA/Councillor/Gazetted Officers confirming the applicant’s caste and continuous stay in Delhi since 1993.
- Residence Certificate
- Family income proof (Salary Slip, Form-16, ITR, etc.)
Note: All documents require attestation by MP/MLA/Gazetted Officer.
Processing Time
The issuance of the caste certificate is typically completed within 14 days of submitting the application. If document verification by the authorities is necessary, the certificate will be provided upon confirmation from the relevant authority.
Applying Caste Certificate Through SDM/DC Office
Here is a total outline for applying a certificate through the online process
Step 1: Approach SDM/DC Office
Visit the SDM/DC Office in person to initiate the caste certificate application process through offline mode.
Step 2. Submit an Application
- Complete the application form in the prescribed format for the caste certificate, with separate forms available for SC/ST and OBC categories
- Provide personal details such as name, gender, date of birth, marital status, and religion
- Include information about parents, spouse, and contact details
- Clearly state the purpose for obtaining the caste certificate
- Furnish caste details, specifying the caste or tribe.
Step 3. Submit Supporting Documents
Submit all necessary supporting documents along with the application to the designated officer.
Step 4. Obtain Acknowledgement Receipt
Receive an acknowledgement receipt containing a unique application number. Keep it secure for future reference.
Step 5. Check Application Status
Monitor the status of the caste certificate application after submission.
Step 6. Local Enquiry
A local enquiry may be conducted to verify the applicant’s residence or caste. For married women, enquiries will be made at both the pre-marriage and post-marriage residences.
Step 7. Obtain Caste Certificate
Once the local enquiry is complete and the caste certificate request is approved, the SDM/DC office will issue the caste certificate. Return to the office with the application number to collect the caste certificate, which can be utilised for the specified purposes.
How to Download Caste Certificate Delhi
Obtaining a Caste Certificate in Delhi has been streamlined with the digitization of governmental services. Follow these steps to download your Caste Certificate:
- Visit the official website of the Delhi Government’s e-District portal
- If not registered, create an account by providing basic details such as name, mobile number, and email
- Login and click on the ‘Download Certificate’ option on the website
- Enter your application number received during the initial application
- Click ‘Search.’ If your certificate is ready, a ‘Download’ option will appear. Click to download your Caste Certificate
- It is recommended to take a printout of the certificate for future reference.
Validity of Caste Certificate Delhi
The Caste Certificate typically holds a lifetime validity in Delhi. However, this may be subject to the issuing authority’s jurisdiction and legislative changes. While generally considered lifelong, any alterations in caste status or fraudulent acquisition may affect validity. Maintenance of the same caste status is crucial for lifelong validity.
Who Issues Caste Certificate Delhi
The Revenue Department, Government of NCT of Delhi, issues the Caste Certificate. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) or Tehsildar at the district level handles the certification process. Applicants can apply online through the e-District portal or submit documents offline at the SDM’s office. After verification, the SDM’s office issues the certificate, officially recognizing the individual’s caste status as per government-defined categories.
Application Fees for Caste Certificate Delhi
No fees are charged by the Delhi government for caste certificate issuance. The process is entirely free, aligning with the government’s commitment to accessibility. Ancillary costs related to documentation or attestations might apply. Applicants are advised to check the official e-District Delhi website for the latest information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the process of obtaining a Caste Certificate in Delhi has been made convenient through digital channels, reflecting the government’s commitment to efficiency and accessibility. The certificates, whether for OBC, SC, or ST categories, play a vital role in recognizing social status and facilitating access to essential benefits. With a commitment to a lifetime validity, the certificates underline the government’s dedication to social welfare and empowerment. The absence of application fees underscores the commitment to making these services freely accessible. As residents navigate the online platform to download certificates, it not only exemplifies technological integration but also signifies a step towards a more inclusive and streamlined governance system in Delhi. You can easily get in touch with our experts for more information and avail your caste certificate easily from Vakilsearch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have lost my caste certificate?
If you have lost your caste certificate, you can apply for a duplicate by contacting the issuing authority, typically the Revenue Department in Delhi. The process involves submitting a request for a duplicate certificate, and you may need to provide necessary identification and verification documents.
How long does it take to get a caste certificate in Delhi?
The processing time for a caste certificate in Delhi is generally around 14 days from the date of application. However, this may vary depending on the verification process and other administrative factors.
Is there a fee for obtaining a Caste Certificate in Delhi?
As of the latest information, there is no fee for obtaining a Caste Certificate in Delhi. The government provides this service free of charge, emphasising accessibility to essential documentation for all residents. It's advisable to check for any updates on fees before applying, as policies may change.
