Generally, a Passport in India is issued after “Police Verification”. This ‘verification’ comes with a price. With a few exceptions, the policeman who visits houses to verify passport applications expects a ‘mamool’ (money). Though two documents for proof of address and one for proof of age are sufficient, he usually prods for ‘some more proof’. A ‘mamool’ is enough to put an end to his ever growing demand for ‘more proofs’. It is said that there are policemen who demand a ‘fixed amount’. The ‘fixed amount’ varies depending on the area you stay. He may not accept a penny less.
This is one of the few occasions when law-abiding citizens come face to face with policemen. If these policemen demand 'mamool', the reputation of police department will erode rapidly. Can’t the police department send persons with high level of integrity, at least for Passport verification. Honest and law abiding citizens feel harassed by this ‘mamool’ oriented policemen whereas anti social elements take advantage of this system to obtain fake passports.
