Kishoreganj regional passport office remains under broker control despite government efforts to eliminate middlemen, whilst Lakshmipur reports significant improvement since August 5.

In Kishoreganj, applicants without broker assistance face systematic rejection regardless of correct documentation. However, those using brokers get applications approved even with missing papers. Assistant Director of Kishoreganj office acknowledged brokers charge extra fees, blackmail applicants after payment, and sometimes assault those refusing to pay more.

Security personnel including Ansar members allegedly work with broker syndicates. Office processes 300 to 400 applications daily, creating substantial illegal income for the network.

Situation differs sharply in Lakshmipur, where broker presence dropped significantly since August 5. Most applicants now manage applications independently. AKM Abu Sayed, Assistant Director of Lakshmipur office, confirmed difficulties have reduced considerably through awareness campaigns and informative posters explaining procedures.

Common problems persist nationwide. Applicants often fail to enter complete names matching National Identity Cards when submitting online applications. Bank payment discrepancies then create complications. Others hold old passports with active visas but names not fully matching new e-passport system records.

Multiple birth certificates containing different name versions cause additional difficulties for some individuals. These document inconsistencies generate serious inconvenience despite elimination of police verification requirements.

Kishoreganj applicants demand long-term solutions and proper security. Officials acknowledged discussing the matter with senior authorities but meaningful action remains absent. Stark contrast between two regional offices suggests broker elimination depends heavily on local administration commitment rather than policy changes alone.

Source: Independent Television.