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

Detailed Legal Analysis

The procedure for police verification in Indore for passport application is a critical step in ensuring that applicants meet security and eligibility criteria as mandated by the Passport Act, 1967.

Below are the detailed steps and requirements involved in the police verification process for passport applications in Indore:

• Application Submission: The applicant must submit their passport application form (either online or offline) along with necessary documents such as proof of identity, address proof, and photographs.
• Fee Payment: After submitting the application, applicants are required to pay the applicable passport fee, which varies based on the type of passport (normal or Tatkal).
• Appointment Scheduling: Upon successful submission, the applicant must schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) for document verification. This can be done online through the Passport Seva website.
• Document Verification at PSK: During the appointment, the applicant must appear in person with original documents for verification. The officials at the PSK will verify the documents and take biometric data (fingerprints and photographs).
• Request for Police Verification: After document verification, the passport application moves to the police verification phase. The PSK will send a request for police verification to the respective local police station based on the applicant's address.
• Police Verification Process: The local police will conduct a verification of the applicant’s credentials. This may involve visiting the applicant's residence and verifying the details provided in the application. Typically, the police will check the identity of the applicant, verify the address, and may also inquire with neighbors or local contacts.
• Submission of Verification Report: Upon completion of the verification, the police will submit a report to the Regional Passport Office (RPO). The report will indicate whether the police clearance is granted or denied.
• Issuance of Passport: Based on the police report, if everything is in order, the passport will be issued. The applicant will be notified through SMS or email regarding the status of their application and can track it online.

This entire process is governed under the Passport Act, 1967, particularly referring to Section 6 which outlines the conditions for the issuance of passports, and the Passport Rules, 1980, which detail the procedures involved in police verification.

In case of any discrepancies or issues arising during the police verification, the applicant may be required to provide further documentation or clarifications as per the directions of the police or the passport authority.