In a significant move to address ongoing concerns regarding the visa application process, the new Sri Lankan government, under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has ordered a forensic audit into the controversial visa outsourcing contracts awarded to several Indian firms. This decision comes amid allegations of irregularities involving the electronic visa system, which has caused considerable distress among tourists seeking to enter the country.
Investigation into Visa Contract Irregularities
The forensic audit targets three firms: GBS Technology and IVS Global FZCO, both based in India, and VFS Global, which was awarded a multimillion-dollar contract in April to serve as the technology partner responsible for processing visa applications for foreign visitors.
Public Security Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed the initiation of the audit, stating, “We have initiated an immediate forensic audit to investigate irregularities.” The announcement marks a critical step in addressing the issues surrounding the visa outsourcing operations that have come under scrutiny from both the public and the judiciary.
The audit follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that has added pressure on the government to rectify the visa processing system. On Tuesday, the Supreme Court ordered the remand of Harsha Ilukpitiya, the Controller of Immigration and Emigration, on contempt of court charges for failing to comply with a previous court order regarding the disputed electronic tourist visa system. The situation underscores the gravity of the issues at hand and the government’s commitment to restoring public trust in its immigration processes.
Supreme Court Orders Reversion to Previous Visa System
In light of the controversy, Minister Herath announced that the airport immigration authorities would revert to the previous visa processing system, effective from Thursday night. This decision aims to alleviate the difficulties faced by many travelers due to the new visa system, which has been described as cumbersome and inefficient.
“The visa facility provided by VFS Global had caused significant difficulties for many,” Herath stated, emphasizing the government’s acknowledgment of the impact the changes had on international visitors.
The Supreme Court had previously intervened by hearing a fundamental rights petition filed by opposition politicians. They labeled the outsourced visa operation a scam and urged its suspension. In July, the court ordered the immigration controller to halt the outsourced operation and revert to the older system that was in place prior to mid-April. The legal battle reflects broader concerns regarding transparency and accountability in the government’s handling of public contracts.
Costly Fees Raise Questions on Visa Policy
Under the terms of the outsourcing agreement, any foreign national entering Sri Lanka was mandated to pay a fee of USD 25 for their visa application to be processed. This requirement applied even to citizens of countries that typically enjoyed visa-free access to the island nation. Such policies have sparked outrage among both the public and international observers, raising questions about the government’s motivations and the fairness of its visa policies.
Critics argue that the fee system disproportionately affects tourists and could deter potential visitors from choosing Sri Lanka as a destination. The backlash has prompted calls for a review of the entire visa application framework to ensure it aligns with best practices and prioritizes the interests of tourists.
As the forensic audit commences, it remains to be seen how the findings will impact the future of visa processing in Sri Lanka. The new government’s proactive approach in addressing the scandal is crucial in restoring public confidence and ensuring that the rights of tourists are upheld.
Minister Herath’s commitment to reverting to the previous system reflects an understanding of the urgent need to rectify the situation and provides a pathway toward establishing a more transparent and efficient immigration process.
In a broader context, the controversy surrounding the visa outsourcing contracts highlights the challenges faced by governments in managing public services and the importance of maintaining accountability in public contracts.
As Sri Lanka seeks to bolster its tourism industry, ensuring a smooth and fair visa application process will be essential in attracting visitors and fostering goodwill in the international community.
