The State Bank of Sikkim (SBS) has launched an online Bank Revenue (BR) payment facility for tenant verification, making the process easier and more efficient for applicants. This initiative is part of the bank’s broader effort to enhance digital banking and improve public service payments.
Simplifying Tenant Verification
SBS Managing Director P. Wangdi Bhutia announced the launch of this new service, emphasizing the bank’s commitment to digital solutions. Now, applicants can complete BR payments for tenant verification online through the official SBS e-Pay portal. This will benefit both landlords and tenants by streamlining the verification process.
The decision follows concerns raised by Sikkim’s Director General of Police (DGP) Akshay Sachdeva regarding the Sikkim Tenants and Domestic and Professional Helps (Compulsory Verification) Act, 2008. Speaking at a press conference on February 11, DGP Sachdeva stressed the need for stricter enforcement of the law due to rising concerns over illegal migration and criminal activities.
Who Needs Tenant Verification?
Tenant verification is now mandatory for individuals from outside Sikkim seeking residence or employment in the state. However, locals are exempt if they hold any of the following documents:
- Sikkim Subject Certificate
- Certificate of Identification (COI)
- Residential Certificate
- Land Documents in Sikkim
- Sikkim Voter ID Card
Additionally, locals moving within Sikkim for work do not need verification if they have any of the above documents.
Landlords Must Register Tenants
Property owners must register their tenants at local police stations. If a landlord is unavailable, a representative can complete the registration on their behalf. This one-time registration will allow the police to conduct background checks on tenants.
To handle the expected increase in verification requests, additional manpower will be deployed after February 15, ensuring regular police duties are not disrupted.
Ensuring Public Safety
DGP Sachdeva reassured residents that the initiative is meant to enhance public safety rather than inconvenience locals. An official notification clarifying the policy will be issued soon. Authorities urge residents to cooperate to maintain peace and security in the state.