-By A Special Correspondent
(Lanka-e-News -02.May.2024, 5.25 PM) The recent decision by the Sri Lankan Immigration and Emigration Department to entrust the processing of arrival visas to an Indian global processing company, Indian Global Processing Ltd, has sparked significant controversy and raised serious national security concerns. The move, unveiled on Tuesday alongside the launch of an online visa issuing system, has drawn mixed reactions from various stakeholders, primarily due to its potential ramifications on security protocols and procedural integrity.
The decision, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers on 11 September, marked a significant departure from traditional visa processing practices. However, concerns quickly emerged regarding the implications of outsourcing such a critical function to a foreign entity, particularly one from India, a neighboring country with its own complex geopolitical dynamics.
Former INSS Director General has voiced strong reservations, emphasizing that entrusting visa processing to a foreign firm poses inherent security risks. He contends that the primary focus of a commercial entity like Indian Global Processing Ltd would be revenue generation rather than rigorous scrutiny and personal questioning at arrival points. Such laxity in scrutiny could inadvertently facilitate the entry of individuals with dubious backgrounds or affiliations, potentially compromising national security interests not only for Sri Lanka but also for Western countries with close ties to the island nation.
Furthermore, recent incidents involving Indian visa processing firms allegedly being linked to human smuggling operations have only amplified these concerns. Reports of a flight bound for France being detained due to suspected irregularities in visa processing underscore the gravity of the situation. Questions surrounding the authorization for the handover remain unanswered, with doubts cast on the transparency and legality of the process.
Compounding the issue, the decision has also led to a surge in visa fees, with Indian Global Processing Ltd levying an additional $25 on top of the standard $75 fee. This escalation has drawn criticism from travelers and industry players alike, further highlighting the financial burden imposed by the outsourcing arrangement.
In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves across the nation, allegations of corruption have surfaced regarding the decision to entrust Indian Global Processing Ltd with the handling of Sri Lankan arrival visas at airports. The move, which has sparked widespread controversy and raised serious concerns about national security and sovereignty, is now under intense scrutiny amid allegations of backdoor dealings and improper influence.
The decision, announced by the Sri Lankan Immigration and Emigration Department, caught many by surprise when it was unveiled 1st of May. It marked a significant departure from established protocols, shifting the responsibility of visa processing to a foreign entity, Indian Global Processing Ltd, without proper transparency or accountability measures in place.
However, what has raised even more eyebrows are the allegations of corruption surrounding the decision-making process. It is alleged that a prominent politician, whose identity has yet to be disclosed, played a pivotal role in facilitating the handover of visa processing to Indian Global Processing Ltd. Reports suggest that this politician, motivated by personal gain and vested interests, actively lobbied for the outsourcing arrangement, disregarding potential security risks and the broader implications for national sovereignty.
The decision to award the contract to Indian Global Processing Ltd, a company with ties to India, a neighboring country with its own geopolitical interests, has raised serious questions about the integrity of the process. Critics argue that such a move not only undermines Sri Lanka's sovereignty but also exposes the nation to potential security threats, given the sensitive nature of visa processing and the influx of foreign nationals entering the country.
Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the lack of transparency surrounding the selection process and the absence of competitive bidding, suggesting possible irregularities in the awarding of the contract. It is alleged that the decision was made unilaterally, without proper oversight or consultation with relevant stakeholders, further fueling suspicions of corruption and impropriety.
The ramifications of this decision are far-reaching, with implications for both national security and the integrity of Sri Lanka's immigration system. The outsourcing of visa processing to a foreign entity raises serious concerns about data privacy, security protocols, and the potential for abuse or exploitation by external actors.
Moreover, the decision has sparked outrage among citizens and industry stakeholders alike, who have voiced their opposition to the move and called for greater transparency and accountability in decision-making processes. Calls for an independent investigation into the allegations of corruption have grown louder, as concerned citizens demand answers and accountability from those responsible for the decision.
In the face of mounting pressure and public scrutiny, it is imperative for the Sri Lankan authorities to address the allegations of corruption surrounding the handover of visa processing to Indian Global Processing Ltd. Safeguarding national interests and upholding the principles of transparency and accountability are paramount in restoring public trust and ensuring the integrity of Sri Lanka's immigration system. Failure to do so risks undermining the country's reputation and compromising its security and sovereignty in the long run.
Recent social media footage depicting long queues and disgruntled travelers at the airport has further fueled public outcry. One video in particular captured a Sri Lankan citizen expressing outrage over the cancellation of his wife's on-arrival visa by Indian visa officers. He vehemently questioned the authority of foreign nationals to dictate visa statuses for Sri Lankan citizens, citing his rights as a taxpayer and emphasizing the government's obligation to prioritize local interests over foreign entities.
The recent decision by the Sri Lankan government, under the leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, to allow an Indian firm to handle visa processing at Sri Lankan airports has ignited a firestorm of controversy and raised serious questions about the motives behind such a move. Amid mounting criticism and concerns about national security, many are demanding answers as to why Ranil's administration has chosen to outsource such a critical function to a foreign entity.
The decision, which came as a surprise to many, marks a significant departure from established practices and protocols. It entails entrusting the processing of arrival visas to in experienced, Indian Global Processing Ltd, a move that has sparked widespread backlash and accusations of negligence and incompetence on the part of the government.
One of the primary concerns surrounding this decision is the potential compromise of national security. Allowing a foreign company, especially one from India, a neighboring country with its own geopolitical interests, to handle visa processing raises serious questions about the integrity of Sri Lanka's immigration system and its ability to safeguard its borders. Critics argue that such a move could expose the country to security threats and exploitation by external actors, jeopardizing the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Furthermore, the decision has raised suspicions of ulterior motives and improper influence. Questions have been raised about the nature of the relationship between the Sri Lankan government and Indian Global Processing Ltd, as well as the potential financial incentives or kickbacks involved in awarding the contract to the Indian firm. Critics argue that the lack of transparency and accountability in the decision-making process only serves to fuel speculation and mistrust among the public.
Moreover, concerns have been raised about the impact of this decision on local employment and the economy. By outsourcing visa processing to a foreign company, the government risks undermining local businesses and depriving Sri Lankan workers of job opportunities. Critics argue that the government should prioritize the interests of its own citizens and promote local entrepreneurship and innovation, rather than outsourcing critical functions to foreign entities.
In the face of mounting criticism and public outcry, President Ranil Wickremesinghe's administration must address the legitimate concerns raised by citizens and industry stakeholders. Transparency and accountability must be paramount in all government decisions, particularly those with far-reaching implications for national security and sovereignty.
Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the efficiency and effectiveness of the visa processing system under Indian oversight, with reports of extended wait times exceeding two to three hours for visa issuance. Such delays not only inconvenience travelers but also reflect poorly on Sri Lanka's reputation as a tourist-friendly destination.
In light of these developments, it is imperative for the Sri Lankan authorities to reevaluate the decision to outsource visa processing to Indian Global Processing Ltd. Safeguarding national security interests and maintaining the integrity of immigration procedures must take precedence over commercial considerations. The government must address the legitimate concerns raised by citizens and industry stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability in all future decisions pertaining to visa processing and immigration policies. Failure to do so risks undermining public trust and compromising the security and sovereignty of the nation.
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by (2024-05-02 12:11:35)
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