MUMBAI: The Centre has prepared Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for police verification needed for passport applications. However, the Maharashtra government is addressing concerns raised by citizens whose residential buildings are undergoing redevelopment, according to a minister’s statement on Wednesday.
During an assembly session, Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam (Urban), emphasized that verifying addresses for passport applications is a national security issue. This process requires confirming the applicant’s identity along with any pending criminal cases.
It is important to note that police verification for issuing passports occurs at the applicant’s registered address. The redevelopment of older buildings can cause temporary relocations for residents, complicating the verification process.
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Manisha Chaudhari (BJP) raised concerns that many housing societies in Mumbai are undergoing redevelopment, forcing residents to live elsewhere temporarily. She pointed out that this situation hampers their ability to complete necessary police verification for passport applications.
”Police do not recognize bank passbooks, Aadhaar, PAN cards, voter ID, or society redevelopment documents during passport verification,” she expressed frustration.
Kadam reiterated that verifying residential addresses for passports, issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), is crucial for national security. The government checks for any criminal history of applicants, stating that both temporary and permanent addresses can be included in passport applications.
Ameet Satam (BJP) questioned the existence of provisions for both address types in the application form.
The minister clarified that accurate passport data is essential for identifying law violators. ”If SOPs are not adhered to and citizens face difficulties, we will investigate,” Kadam assured, mentioning that rent receipts could serve as proof of residence for passport renewal.
Kadam emphasized that police must thoroughly verify the residential addresses provided in passport applications according to central government guidelines. “Verification will be strictly conducted at the current address listed in the application,” he confirmed.
The minister further explained that police verification aims to establish the applicant’s identity and check for any outstanding legal issues. Police officers are required to visit the applicant’s address to confirm the details.
Addressing the challenges posed by redevelopment, Kadam stated that temporary addresses, supported by rental agreements from developers, will be accepted for verification purposes.
Kadam affirmed the state government’s commitment to following the MEA’s SOPs while integrating technology, including AI and digital passport applications, to enhance efficiency and transparency in the process.
The government also plans to launch a campaign to educate citizens that police verification is conducted at the address currently listed by the applicant.
