SJB MP Mujibur Rahman has raised concerns over the newly issued passports, alleging English spelling errors and weaker security features compared to the previous version.
“When we are in a foreign country, we are judged by the passport. Look at the passport page number 30, instead of Yapahuwa, it says something else. On page 31, instead of Talaimannar it says something else. English spelling is wrong! What an embarrassment.” Rahman said the errors were an embarrassment to the government and criticized the removal of key security elements.
“In the old passport, the first page contained the passport number, which could be verified using ultraviolet technology. Under UV light, it turned red, serving as a built-in security feature. The new passport lacks this and instead only includes the personalized data page, which can be altered. This compromises security in the new blue passport. How did this happen? Were the controllers even involved?” he questioned.
The MP warned that if taken to court, the government might be forced to recall and reissue passports. He also noted the removal of pages for alterations, endorsements, and foreign exchange transactions.
“People are paying Rs. 20,000 for a passport of such low quality, where the ink transfers when stamped,” he added. (Islandnews)
