A group of dedicated social workers in the UAE has reached out to India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, to formally request a reconsideration of the recent surge in passport processing fees. Led by Dr. S.V. Reddy, president of Telugu Rasamayi UAE, the group argues that while periodic adjustments to service charges are expected, this specific increase imposes an undue financial strain on students, low-income workers, and families living abroad. The appeal emphasizes that the Indian diaspora plays a vital role in supporting the home economy through remittances and cultural promotion, and therefore, suggests that the Ministry of External Affairs should engage in wider consultations with community representatives before finalizing policies that impact millions of expatriates.

Beyond the baseline passport fees, many residents have raised alarms regarding the high service charges imposed by external providers, which significantly inflate the total cost of renewal—a burden that is compounded for larger families. Residents have also expressed frustrations over the availability of appointments, noting that securing a timely slot often feels inaccessible unless one pays for premium services or travels to distant centers. Looking ahead, the community is calling for a more streamlined, affordable, and user-friendly experience under new service providers. By fostering a constructive dialogue, these advocates hope the government will adopt a more balanced approach that ensures essential consular services remain accessible to every Indian citizen, regardless of their financial standing.