Rahul Gandhi Has a Fingerprint Issue

Rahul can’t visit UK mission to give fingerprints, MEA finds a way out

New Delhi, Jan 16 : What happens when Rahul Gandhi is pressed for time to go to the British High Commission for giving his fingerprints for a visa? The Government of India steps in and sends an official note to the high commission, seeking relaxation of rules.

The incident happened last month, when the AICC general secretary applied for a UK visa for a personal visit, but due to a tight schedule, couldn't find time to visit the High Commission in the Capital to give his fingerprints.

Acting swiftly on a request sent by his office, the Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) sent an official communique to the UK High Commission, which let it exempt the Amethi MP.

It is not known whether Rahul went to London. Asked about it, British High Commission sources said they were "not aware that there has been any problem in the case of the specific individual".

Sources told The Sunday Express that the letter from Rahul's office came just before Christmas, and was forwarded to the MEA's Consular, Passport and Visa (CPV) Division, with the request to take up the matter with the British authorities at the earliest.

MEA officials claimed there was nothing wrong or illegal in the ministry intervening on behalf of Rahul. When asked about the matter, Vishnu Prakash, the MEA spokesperson, said: "The MEA regularly facilitates issuance of visas for honourable MPs for their travels abroad through visa notes issued by the CPV Division. In fact, a new division, Parliament and VIP cell, has been recently established by the ministry to expeditiously look into requests and suggestions."

It is learnt that Rahul had a UK visa but applied for a fresh one. As a Member of Parliament, Rahul holds a Red Passport, entitling him to VIP status. A diplomatic passport holder does not need to give his biometric data if he is going on an official visit. However, MPs seeking a visa for a personal visit to the UK have to give their fingerprints in the consular section at the High Commission.

Source: The Sunday Express