Final answer:
An affidavit in lieu of originals in OCI 16 serves as a notarized statement verifying that the photocopies submitted with the OCI application are true copies of the original documents.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of an affidavit in lieu of originals in OCI 16 is to submit a notarized affidavit stating that the documents provided are true copies of the original documents. This affidavit serves as a legal statement that confirms the authenticity of the photocopies provided in support of the OCI application. It is a safeguard to ensure that the application process is based on genuine documents, as the original documents are not submitted with the application. Providing a notarized affidavit in lieu of originals helps in expediting the process by allowing the authorities to verify the applicant's photocopies against the affidavit rather than the original documents.