Do you have to pay money for passport police verification? Know the important facts

Passport Police Verification: Do you have to pay any separate fee to the police for police verification while getting a passport? Learn about the rules regarding this.

Passport Police Verification: The passport application process is now completely online. Filling out the form, scheduling an appointment, and paying the fees are all done through the system. Despite this, one thing still troubles people: police verification. Many people have experienced police officers demanding money when they come to their homes for verification. Demands range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1000, and sometimes even up to Rs. 2000.

Sometimes, they even threaten to submit a negative report or delay the process if the money is not paid. In such situations, ordinary people get scared and pay the money without questioning. But the most important thing to know here is whether the police have any legal right to demand money in the name of passport verification.

Can the police demand money for passport verification?

The entire passport fee is paid online while filling out the form. When applying for a normal passport, you have to pay Rs. 1500 online. After paying this fee, you get an appointment date. After this, you don't have to pay any money at the passport office or to any police officer. Police verification is part of this process, but no separate charge is levied for it.

In simple terms, the police have no right to demand even a single rupee from you in the name of the passport report. If a police officer demands money, they are violating government rules. This is not a fee, but falls under the category of bribery. In such a case, there is no need to be afraid, but to be vigilant.

What to do if money is demanded?

According to the rules, demanding money in the name of passport verification is completely illegal. Demanding or accepting a bribe falls under Section 173 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Giving a bribe is still considered a crime and is punishable under Section 8 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.  This means both demanding and giving money as a bribe are illegal.

If a police officer demands money from you, you can file a complaint. Contact an officer of the SP, DSP, or SSP rank in your district. Many state police websites also provide helpline numbers for this purpose. Most importantly, stay informed. Only by knowing the rules can you stand firm against such illegal demands.