Will Passport Applications Undergo Thorough Verification by Police?

Mumbai, July 16 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Minister of State for Home (Urban), Yogesh Kadam, announced in the state Assembly on Wednesday that the Police Department will receive directives to thoroughly authenticate the current address provided in passport applications, following the precise protocols of the Central government.

"It is crucial that police verification concerning passport applications is both accurate and consistent. Applicants have the option to furnish both a permanent and current address. The verification of the current address submitted will be conducted meticulously. Instructions will be disseminated to the Police Department to ensure the current address verification aligns with the Central government's defined procedures," he stated.

This statement was made in response to a calling attention motion raised by member Manisha Chaudhari, who highlighted the necessity of police verification at the applicant's current address, particularly when they have relocated due to building redevelopment.

Kadam emphasized the importance of verifying the identity of the applicant, checking for any unresolved criminal matters, summons, or warrants against them.

He noted that this procedure is vital for national security. It is obligatory for police to visit the provided address during the passport verification process.

"In cases of buildings undergoing redevelopment, developers often offer temporary housing or rentals to residents. In such instances, the temporary address listed in the lease agreement will be accepted for verification purposes. The Central government's guidelines will be strictly adhered to during this process," he added.

The minister also mentioned that modern technologies like artificial intelligence and the Passport Digital App will be leveraged to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the passport verification process. Public awareness campaigns will inform applicants that their current address will be verified when applying for a passport.

Additionally, Labour Minister Akash Fundkar announced a special initiative in the state Assembly to investigate fraudulent registrations of Mathadi workers across Maharashtra.

Regarding the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, the minister indicated that action will be taken against any workers and officials found responsible for bogus registrations. This announcement was made in response to a motion raised by member Abhijit Patil.

Minister Fundkar stated that an inquiry committee has been instituted to investigate the fraudulent registrations of Mathadi workers at a company in the Shendra MIDC area of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Following the committee's report, appropriate actions will be taken according to regulations. Out of 17 workers involved, 11 have resigned. Legal actions will be initiated against those found guilty in the inquiry report, as well as against the culpable officials.

He further mentioned that a meeting with the Supply Department will be convened to address the pending grants for Mathadi workers registered in the government warehouse.