Indian Ambassador warns against unlicensed loans, highlights passport application changes

TDT | Manama

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Indian Ambassador Vinod Kurian Jacob yesterday urged members of the community to avoid obtaining loans from unlicensed providers to prevent any potential legal issues. Referring to recent reports, he stated that a group of workers is engaging with fellow nationals to secure loans with exorbitant interest rates. He further explained that these individuals are operating with funds that may have been obtained through illicit activities.

“These lending operations could be a sign of money laundering,” the Ambassador warned during the first open house of 2025, organised by the Embassy of India. The Ambassador also highlighted recent changes to the passport application process for minors. He explained that the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, has revised annexures ('C' and 'D') required for such applications.

The revised forms are available on the embassy's website. Around 30 cases were addressed during the Open House, which was conducted in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam. The Embassy's Community Welfare team, Consular team, and panel lawyers were present to assist. The Ambassador also expressed his pleasure at the large turnout of Indian community members at the Flag Unfurling Ceremony and the evening reception organised by the Embassy to celebrate India's 76th Republic Day