V.SUDALAIKAN Vs. REGIONAL PASSPORT OFFICER

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This Writ Petition has been filed seeking for issuance of a Writ of Mandamus, directing the respondent to issue Passport to the petitioner, by processing the File No.MD2071606608118, dated 30.10.2018, by considering the petitioner's representation, dated 27.12.2018.

(2.) The petitioner submits that the respondent herein had issued a Passport vide No.G8084364, for a period of 10 years i.e., 27.05.2008 to 26.05.2018. Since his Passport validity period has been expired on 26.05.2018, the petitioner had applied for re-issuance of Passport, by renewing the same, through online on 28.10.2018 and paid a sum of Rs.1,500/-. The respondent herein had entertained his application in File No.MD2071606608118 and given an appointment dated 30.10.2018 to appear before them along with necessary documents. As per the instructions given by the respondent, the petitioner has appeared before them and produced all the documents in support of his claim for renewal of passport.

(3.) The petitioner further submits that after receipt of the documents, the respondent assured the petitioner that the Passport will be dispatched through Post. While so, all of a sudden, the respondent had issued a letter dated 29.11.2018 and sought explanation from the petitioner, as if he has involved in criminal cases. The petitioner appeared on 21.12.2018 before the respondent in person and informed that he never involved in any criminal case and no criminal proceedings are pending against him in any Court of law. He sent a written explanation dated 27.12.2018 through registered post also. But, the respondent orally informed the petitioner that the FIR is pending against him and therefore, he is not entitled for renewal of Passport.