Delhi High Court Dismisses PIL Challenging Passport Fee Hike for NRIs

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that challenged the central government's decision to increase passport fees for non-resident Indians (NRIs).

According to the reported court proceedings, the bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma observed that a 67 percent fee hike implemented after a gap of 14 years cannot be considered unreasonable or exorbitant.

Court Observations and Policy Domain

The court stated that determining passport fee structures falls strictly within the policy domain of the government, and therefore, judicial intervention in this matter was not warranted.

Details of the Challenge

• Petitioner: Pravasi Legal Cell
• Core Allegation: The petition alleged discrimination against NRIs.
• Fee Discrepancy Cited: NRIs are required to pay approximately Rs 11,900 for passport services, whereas resident Indians pay Rs 2,500.

Readers can verify the official court orders and announcements through the Delhi High Court's official portal or verified legal reporting platforms.