<h1>Unauthorized changes to birth and death certificates banned under Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969 guidelines</h1> The West Bengal Health Department has issued directives prohibiting unauthorized changes to birth and death certificates, allowing modifications only through the registrar upon submission of valid documentation. Only minor corrections, such as typographical errors in names or dates, are permitted, with the registrar's decision being final. Requests must be supported by identity proofs like Aadhaar or Voter ID, and surname changes require a judicial affidavit and additional documents. The policy prohibits removal or replacement of a father's name on birth certificates, even in cases of divorce or remarriage, to prevent legal complications. This directive aims to standardize record management and prevent misuse, relying on the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, to restrict alterations that could cause legal or administrative issues.