(a) whether the number of pending applications in Patna Passport Office has increased;
(b) if so, the details thereof during the last three years; and
(c) the remedial measures taken by the Government in this regard?
(a) whether the number of pending applications in Patna Passport Office has increased;
(b) if so, the details thereof during the last three years; and
(c) the remedial measures taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI JASWANT SINGH)
(a) No, Sir.
(b) As on 16-11-2001, only 40 passport applications were pending with the Patna Passport Office where police verification report is clear and all the other documents are complete.
(c) The delay in processing of passport applications is mainly due to non-receipt of clear police verification reports. The Passport Officer is in touch with the State Police Authorities for expediting police verification reports.