Signature on Application form

In application form of a school, I found something really strange.

The form has space for Father's Signature and Mother's Signature.
In the 'Note' section one of the points is "Only the father need to sign the form. If the father is not alive, then the mother need to sign"

When I read this, I found it strange. All I have seen till now is a space for Parent's signature and either of the parent can sign. What I really cannot understand is that when there is a space for both the father and mother's signature, what will happen if both signs. Why should be the school so specific about this and put it as a note?

I am not able to understand and for a moment was angered by this. This somehow is an indication of male dominated soceity.

wanted to know all of your views on this. Hence posting it here.

Hi Suhaguru,

with you ...
Even I don't understand the point.

I have seen applications where they ask for the signature of both parents. But, have'nt come across anything like this

I dont think it is really necessary to know if the parent is living or not,for them to make a decision on the child's admission.

Lets see if any ILs here come up with some better reasons which we have not thought of ...

Hi Suhaguru,

thats really wierd! I wonder how they come up with such NOTE on (even) the application form. In which era are they? You know what, letsnot bother our precious brains for such idiocity in the society.. I would like the father and mother both to sign the papers. what could they do?

I cannot even tolerate application forms asking for just the father's sign. WHY? Is the mother in MARS? Yesterday when I filled a school application form for my DS, both DH and me signed in the places where the 'Father' has to sign. whats wrong if the mother wants to be involved?

If you let me, I wish to know which school this is.