Hurdles in getting e-passes: SHRC seeks report from TN chief secretary

MADURAI: The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has directed the Tamil Nadu chief secretary to give a report on the hurdles faced by people due to the e-pass system.
The order, which seeks a response in four weeks, is based on a representation from the Dindigul district president of Tamil Nadu Makkal Nugarvor Peravai V Visvarathinam.
In his representation to SHRC acting chairperson justice (retired) D Jayachandran last week, the petitioner ascertained that the e-pass system was against the Constitution as each individual has the basic right to travel. Visvarathinam stated that the e-pass system implemented by the state, though the Centre has done away with it.
According to Visvarathinam, economically weaker citizens are unable to travel to neighbouring districts for work every day without the e-pass. He added that stranded persons, those with medical emergencies, and those with aged and ailing relatives are also affected.
He stated that students were unable to carry forward the admission processes as they were unable to visit education institutions in other districts. The petitioner also observed that e-pass scams have been taking place due to blanket rejection of passes at various districts.
The SHRC, in an order dated August 7, stated that the matter would be listed for further consideration before the commission within four weeks, before which the chief secretary should submit the report by post without fail.