In a time where digital transformation is revolutionising public services, the West Bengal Police Department has taken significant strides to modernise the process of obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) and conducting tenant verifications. These processes, which traditionally required time-consuming paperwork and multiple visits to the police station, can now be completed online, bringing unprecedented convenience and efficiency to residents across the state.
The launch of the online portal has brought a significant change in how PCCs are processed in West Bengal. Here’s how the new system works:
1. Applicants can now apply for a PCC by visiting the official PCC portal. The digital process eliminates the need for physical paperwork and in-person visits to the police station. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:
- OTP Verification: The process begins with the applicant entering their mobile number to receive a One-Time Password (OTP). This is followed by Aadhaar number submission, ensuring the genuineness of the application.
- Form Filling: The portal automatically fills a large portion of the form based on the Aadhaar number. Applicants only need to input specific details like the purpose of the PCC, whether for visa, job verification, etc.
- Document Upload & Payment: A passport-sized photograph and necessary documents are uploaded, and a fee of ₹300 is paid online through net banking, debit, or credit card.
2. Once the application is submitted, it is digitally forwarded to the local police station relevant to the applicant’s address. Here’s what happens next:
- Physical Verification: A police officer is assigned to conduct a physical verification at the applicant’s given address. This step is crucial to ensure the authenticity of the information provided.
- Record Check: The police department conducts a comprehensive background check on the applicant, verifying if there are any criminal records or outstanding issues.
3. Upon successful verification, the police department issues a digitally signed PCC. This certificate is then emailed to the applicant, and an SMS notification confirms the completion of the process. The entire procedure, which previously took about 30 days, is now expected to be completed within 72 hours to a week.
