the Kolkata Police have introduced stricter measures to ensure a robust verification process. The crackdown comes as a response to reports of fraudulent practices in passport issuance, emphasizing accountability, thorough scrutiny, and improved security protocols.
Kolkata Police have revamped the passport verification process to close loopholes exploited by fraudulent entities. The updated measures include:
- Home Visits: Officers now conduct mandatory home visits to verify applicants’ residential details, ensuring authenticity.
- Document Scrutiny: Verification teams meticulously examine supporting documents such as identification proofs, birth certificates, and address records.
- Background Checks: Police liaise with local authorities and community leaders to confirm the legitimacy of claims made by applicants.
To enhance accountability, officers involved in the verification process are being monitored closely. Reports indicate that punitive action, including suspensions and transfers, will be taken against officers found negligent in performing their duties.
The passport racket came to light after an intelligence operation revealed a network facilitating fraudulent passports for illegal purposes. Forged documents and fake identity proofs were uncovered during the investigation, exposing vulnerabilities in the verification process.
The racket’s bust has raised alarm bells, leading to an overhaul in the system to prevent future lapses.
Kolkata Police have also initiated an awareness campaign urging citizens to report suspicious activities related to passport applications. Information channels, including helplines and online portals, have been made accessible for whistleblowers
To further streamline the process, police plan to incorporate advanced technologies such as:
- Biometric Verification: Ensuring data accuracy and reducing the possibility of duplicity.
- Digital Records: Maintaining a centralized database to track applicants and flag inconsistencies.
These steps aim to rebuild public trust and uphold national security. The police are determined to make the passport verification process both secure and transparent. Citizens have lauded the initiative, viewing it as a positive step toward eliminating fraudulent practices.
The Kolkata Police’s proactive stance sets a precedent for other cities to follow, reinforcing the importance of vigilance in maintaining the integrity of official processes.