Balasubbulakshmi Gunasekaran v. Regional Passport Officer

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT MADRAS

DATED: 16.08.2023 CORAM: JUSTICE N.SESHASAYEE WP.No.24083 of 2023 Balasubbulakshmi Gunasekaran

...Petitioner

-VsRegional Passport Officer, Royala Towers, No.2 and 3, IV Floor, Old No.785, New No.158, Anna Salai, Chennai - 600 002.

...Respondents

Prayer: Writ Petition is filed under Article 226 of Constitution of India, to issue a Writ of Mandamus, directing the respondent herein to consider the Letter of Representation dated 23.05.2023 and consequently direct the Respondent to make necessary changes in the Passport bearing No.M4348239 in accordance with the Letter of Representation dated 23.05.2023.

For Petitioner : Mr.S.Manuraj For Respondent : Mr.D.Simon, CGSC

ORDER

The petitioner claims that she was in live-in-relationship with a certain man and when she applied for passport, his name was given as her spouse. Later, they fell apart and the relationship came to an end. She 1/4

further alleges that she is since married and wants to replace the name of her spouse from the live-in-relationship partner to her husband. She also adds that her Application for renewal of passport is pending. 2.Mr.D.Simon, learned Central Government Standing Counsel takes notice for the respondent.

3.The respondent Passport Authority is now required to cause an enquiry into the petitioner's representation dated 23.05.2023 and, if so required provide a personal hearing to the petitioner and decide the issue within a period of eight (8) weeks from the date of receipt of a copy of this order. 4.The Writ Petition is disposed of accordingly. No costs. 16.08.2023 Index : Yes/No Internet : Yes/No Tsg 2/4

To Regional Passport Officer, Royala Towers, No.2 and 3, IV Floor, Old No.785, New No.158, Anna Salai, Chennai - 600 002.

N.SESHASAYEE, J., 3/4

Tsg Order made in 16.08.2023 4/4