In a move that has sparked controversy across the country, the Indian government has announced a significant increase in fees for passport applications. The new fees, which came into effect on January 1st, have left many citizens outraged and questioning the motives behind the sudden hike.
The fee for a fresh passport application has been increased from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 for applicants under the age of 15, and from Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 for applicants above the age of 15. Additionally, the fees for Tatkaal and normal passport applications have also been increased, with the former now costing Rs 4,000 and the latter Rs 1,500 for applicants under 15, and Rs 7,500 and Rs 3,000 for applicants above 15, respectively.
The government has defended the fee hike, stating that it is necessary in order to cover the rising costs of providing passport services. They have also pointed out that the fees have not been increased in over a decade, and that the new rates are in line with those charged by other countries for similar services.
However, many citizens feel that the increase in fees is unjustified, especially considering the already high cost of living in the country. Critics argue that the government should be working to make essential services more affordable for the general public, rather than imposing additional financial burdens on them.
In response to the backlash, the Ministry of External Affairs has assured the public that the increased fees will not affect the processing time for passport applications, and that they are committed to providing efficient and reliable services to all citizens. They have also emphasized that the fees are necessary in order to maintain the security and integrity of the passport issuance process.
Despite these reassurances, many are still not satisfied with the government’s decision. Some have taken to social media to express their frustration, using hashtags such as #NoToPassportHike and #StopPassportFeesHike to voice their opposition. Others have called for a boycott of the passport services until the fees are reduced.
The increase in passport fees comes at a time when many are already struggling to make ends meet, with inflation and job losses plaguing the economy. For some, the extra cost of obtaining a passport may be the difference between being able to travel for work or education, and being confined to their home country.
As the debate over the passport fee hike continues, it remains to be seen whether the government will reconsider its decision in light of the public outcry. In the meantime, many citizens are left feeling frustrated and disillusioned by yet another financial burden imposed on them by the authorities.
