Residents of Bengaluru turned out in huge numbers for the two-day Passport Mela that concluded on Sunday. At 2,850, the number of participants was the highest registered at any Passport Mela in the country. Encouraged by the speedy service demonstrated at the mela, many applicants who could not make it there, turned up at the Passport Seva Kendra on Monday hoping some of the spirit of the last two days would linger. But it was back to business at the usual snail’s pace at passport offices in Bengaluru.
“A neighbour of mine had come to the passport mela and got his application processed within an hour. He said things have changed and I should visit the passport office before the office loses pace. But, they were faster in losing pace than I expected. ,” said Rama Rao, a retired school teacher.
Applicants complained that they are sent back home many times for different reasons. Passport officials blame the public. “The rules, processes and documents required for applying, getting and renewing a passport are clearly laid out. The passport offices have clearly mentioned what documents are required and there is no confusion about it. Many applicants do not follow the procedure and submit wrong documents,” says one official, who refuses to believe the passport office is at fault.