ProMASS News Bureau: Aug 22, 2016: A Passport Seva Kendra was inaugurated in Agartala on January 1, 2016 with much fanfare. Soon the Kendra has become a big source of disappointment and desperation. “I have duly applied for Passport and also paid required fees in April, 2016. However, though almost 4 months have since elapsed, I am yet to get an ‘Appointment’, forget about getting Passport,” alleged one Shaymal Chakraborty.
It is learnt that many applicants are hopelessly waiting for their appointments, 1st step after filling form in obtaining passport. “People living in Kolkata are getting passport within 7-10 days while in Tripura no one knows when they’ll get an ‘Appointment”. Applicants alleged that Officials of the Seva Kendra are apathetic to their plights. Instead of taking steps to fast-track the process, the Officials are reportedly sitting idle and blaming slow speed of internet connectivity for delay in getting ‘Appointment’. Delay in getting an appointment for Passport has forced many Common Service Centres (CSCs) across the State to stop delivering Passport services to people.
Despite repeated pleas, Seva Kendra Officials are not taking any effective steps in addressing the issue. Sluggishness in rendering services by Passport Seva Kendra is affecting prospects many youth, alleged Shaymal Chakraborty. Officials were not available for comment.
