What is the procedure for police verification in Coimbatore for passport application?

Detailed Legal Analysis

The procedure for police verification in Coimbatore for a passport application involves several steps and is governed by the Passport Act, 1967, and the rules laid down by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This verification is crucial to ensure the applicant's background is suitable for the issuance of a passport.

Here is a detailed outline of the procedure:

• Application Submission: The applicant must submit their passport application either online through the Passport Seva Portal or in person at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) in Coimbatore.
• Appointment for Verification: Once the application is submitted, the applicant must book an appointment for biometric data collection at the PSK. This usually occurs on the same day or soon after the application is submitted.
• Document Verification: At the PSK, the applicant needs to provide various documents, including:
• Proof of identity (Aadhar card, voter ID, etc.)
• Proof of address (utility bills, rental agreements, etc.)
• Passport-sized photographs as per specifications
• Any supporting documents relevant to the application (marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.)
• Fee Payment: The applicant must pay the requisite fees as determined by the MEA, which varies based on the type of passport applied for (normal or Tatkal).
• Police Verification Process: After document verification, the application is sent to the local police station for verification. The police will:
• Contact the applicant via phone or visit their residence.
• Verify the identity and address provided in the application.
• Check for any criminal records or pending cases against the applicant.
• Report Submission: Upon completion of the verification, the police will submit a report to the Regional Passport Office (RPO). This report usually takes about 7 to 15 days, but it may vary based on the police department's workload.
• Passport Issuance: Once the RPO receives the police verification report and if everything is in order, the passport will be issued. The applicant will be notified via SMS or email regarding the status of their passport.

In summary, the police verification process is an essential step in the passport application journey, ensuring the applicant's integrity and safety as per the Passport Act, 1967, and its associated rules.