MHA Clarifies Visa Fees and Penalties After Air India Crash Victim’s Kin Raises Rs 1.1 Lakh Complaint

Quick Summary:

• Incident: A relative of passengers aboard crashed Air India flight AI171 alleged immigration officials demanded £1,000 (~₹1,16,813) for visa fees and penalties to allow boarding at Ahmedabad Airport.
• Passengers Impacted: Three individuals: a mother, her 15-month-old son (Master Rudra Kishan Modha), and the child’s grandmother.
• Allegation details: The grandson was denied boarding due to visa documentation issues despite holding a British passport. Officials requested payment before granting an exit permit.
• MHA Clarification:

– Visa fees and fines amounting to ₹91,140 were charged for overstaying in India by 1 year, 2 months, and 2 days.
– Breakdown of charges: $484 (~₹41,140) for visa fees plus ₹50,000 penalty for exceeding the legal stay duration of 90 days.

• Key Facts from MHA: The child was born in Nagpur on august 22, 2023; his UK passport was issued on April 10, 2024. Due procedure was followed in issuing the exit permit.

Image Included:
Air India Plane Crash in Ahmedabad | © DD
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