Ahmedabad’s Regional Passport Office (RPO) has issued a stern advisory for all passport holders and travel agencies. The warning is clear: don’t affix any promotional stickers, labels, or identity markings on Indian passports.
According to the RPO, there have been reports of tour operators sticking various documents onto passports, which obscure the National Emblem and other critical security features. This practice isn’t just frowned upon; it complicates immigration checks. “Affixing stickers on passports hampers document examination during immigration checks,” the statement noted.
The RPO also emphasized that using an Indian passport for commercial purposes violates the Passport Act of 1967. Officials pointed out that this behavior disrespects national symbols and diminishes the dignity of Indian passports internationally.
“Passport holders as well as travel/tour operators are advised to avoid such practices,” they warned. It’s not just about appearance; alterations could make international travel more difficult and might even lead to legal consequences under the Passport Act.
So, if you’re planning a trip, keep your passport in its original condition. Any external markings or covers can create hassles during your journey and could attract unwanted scrutiny from authorities.