ISLAMABAD: Expressing deep concern over persistent complaints of malpractices, irregularities, inordinate delays, and unsatisfactory facilities at Passport Offices for the general public, Federal Ombudsman (Wafaqi Mohtasib) Ejaz Ahmad Qureshi has ordered immediate inspections in Islamabad, Quetta, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and other major cities. He directed authorities to address these complaints promptly and implement urgent remedial measures.
In response to a significant number of complaints regarding passport issuance delays, a WMS inspection team previously visited the Passport Office in Islamabad, as directed by the Federal Ombudsman, to investigate the reasons behind delays and issues in service delivery.
Passport Office’s Compliance Report
However, the Compliance Report submitted by the Passport Office was deemed unsatisfactory and lacking substance by the Federal Ombudsman.
Wafaqi Mohtasib highlighted that overseas Pakistanis are the worst affected by this situation, as in numerous cases, their visas expired or they were unable to join work abroad due to delays. Similarly, individuals intending to travel abroad for higher studies or family trips faced similar issues.
He emphasized the need to identify and take strict action against those responsible for creating artificial shortages, engaging in malpractices, and other irregularities.
