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MEA Passports Issued Under Established Rules: Only 8% Hold This Document?

व द श म त र लय - The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified that Indian passports are issued strictly in compliance with the Passports Act, 1967, which governs the process of document verification and issuance. In a recent statement, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that the current rate of passport holders in India stands at a mere 8%, underscoring a significant gap in access to this essential travel document. This statistic raises questions about the efficiency of the MEA’s administrative processes and the broader implications for India’s citizens’ mobility and international engagement. Despite the established protocols, the low percentage of passport holders suggests that challenges remain in ensuring equitable distribution and awareness of passport requirements across the population.

MEA’s Role in Passport Issuance and Verification

According to the MEA, the process of issuing passports involves rigorous checks to confirm the identity, citizenship, and eligibility of applicants. Jaiswal emphasized that these procedures are designed to prevent fraud and ensure that only authorized individuals receive passports. However, the 8% figure indicates that a large portion of the Indian population may not be taking advantage of the system. Factors such as bureaucratic delays, lack of awareness, and the complexity of the application process could be contributing to this issue. The MEA has acknowledged the need to streamline these procedures, particularly for younger demographics and those in remote areas, to improve accessibility and increase the number of passport holders.

MEA Responds to RCMP Statements on Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s Assassination

Jaiswal also addressed recent statements from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) regarding the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh activist. The MEA confirmed that it has taken note of the RCMP’s allegations against the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which it has linked to cross-border terrorism. This incident has reignited discussions about India’s diplomatic ties with Canada and its commitment to combating transnational threats. Jaiswal reiterated that the MEA works closely with international partners to ensure accountability and uphold security standards. The statement aligns with previous assertions by U.S. authorities, who have also raised concerns about the role of the Bishnoi group in the attack.

“The MEA has reviewed the RCMP deputy commissioner’s remarks and finds them consistent with the U.S. allegations…,” Jaiswal noted.

India’s Stance on U.S. Legal Actions Against Bishnoi Network

India has formally acknowledged the legal actions taken by the U.S. government against Lawrence Bishnoi and his associate Goldy Brar. The MEA emphasized that these charges reflect the growing collaboration between India and the U.S. in addressing organized crime and terrorism. Jaiswal praised the American judiciary’s role in holding the Bishnoi group accountable for their actions, which have been linked to drug trafficking and other transnational crimes. The MEA has also highlighted the importance of joint efforts in tracking and prosecuting individuals involved in cross-border activities, ensuring that international legal frameworks are utilized effectively.

MEA’s Criticism of Pakistan’s Policies in Occupied Kashmir

In addition to passport issues, the MEA has criticized Pakistan’s handling of protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Jaiswal accused the Pakistani government of imposing stringent policies that have fueled public unrest among local populations. The statement cited reports of restricted access to essential supplies, internet shutdowns, and the use of lethal force against unarmed civilians. The MEA called on the international community to scrutinize Pakistan’s actions and support measures that promote human rights and democratic freedoms in the region. This issue has become a focal point in India’s diplomatic engagements with Pakistan, particularly as tensions continue to escalate in the disputed territory.

“Pakistan’s government has ignored legitimate demands of protesters, resorting to excessive force…,” Jaiswal said.

Strategies to Increase Passport Accessibility in India

Addressing the low passport issuance rate, the MEA has outlined initiatives to improve accessibility and awareness. These include expanding the number of passport centers in rural and underserved regions, implementing digital application processes to reduce wait times, and launching educational campaigns targeting youth and first-time applicants. Jaiswal also mentioned that the MEA is working to simplify documentation requirements, particularly for individuals seeking passports for travel or study abroad. By adopting these measures, the ministry aims to bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that more citizens can benefit from the passport’s role in facilitating global interactions.

MEA’s Commitment to Global Security and Diplomacy

The MEA has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing international security cooperation and addressing transnational threats. Jaiswal emphasized that the ministry’s efforts in passport issuance are part of a larger strategy to support India’s citizens in their global endeavors while maintaining strict adherence to legal standards. This dual focus on accessibility and security highlights the MEA’s role in balancing domestic needs with international obligations. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the ministry’s ability to efficiently manage passport services will play a crucial role in India’s diplomatic and economic engagements on the global stage.