We recently raised a grievance through the PMO portal regarding systemic vulnerabilities in visa issuance mechanisms, particularly the risk of non-transparent influence, VIP recommendations, and inadequate verification processes.
Key Details
- Complainant: Dr Ishtdev Sharma
- Date of Receipt: 11 June 2025
- Department: Prime Minister’s Office
- Concerned Ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs
- Subject Category: Home Affairs – Matter related to unethical practices
Core Allegations Raised
- Indian visas are allegedly being issued in Europe under VIP recommendations, without mandatory verification and security clearances from R&AW, IB, and MHA.
- Alleged involvement or pressure from foreign intelligence agencies, including the CIA and German BND.
- An assertion that such practices pose a national security threat, particularly in sensitive regions such as Assam.
- A specific request to halt visa issuance based solely on VIP recommendations.
Outcome / Status
- Case Status: Closed
- Date of Action: 15 December 2025
- Official Remark: “There is no individual grievance highlighted. It is noted and taken up with the appropriate authority for action.”
Important Interpretation:
The PMO treated the matter as a policy/national security representation, not as an individual service grievance. Hence, while the issue was forwarded internally, no detailed, reasoned order or disclosure was provided, and the grievance was formally closed.
Nature of Document
- A formal national security representation addressed directly to the Prime Minister of India.
- Filed through the PMOPG Portal as a “MOST IMMEDIATE – National Security Matter”.
Main Assertions
- Visa Issuance Irregularities
- Alleged issuance of Indian visas in Europe without proper verification.
- Claimed pressure from VIP offices and certain NGOs linked with yoga and cultural activities.
- Foreign Intelligence Influence
- Allegations of CIA covert operations, with cooperation from German intelligence (BND).
- Claims of intelligence gathering and influence operations focused on Assam and Northeast India.
- Funding & NGO Concerns
- Alleged funding of projects in Assam through German institutions (e.g., development banks, NGOs).
- An assertion that such funding is being used for religious conversion and influence among the Scheduled Tribes.
- Systemic Vulnerabilities
- Claim that loopholes in India’s administrative and visa mechanisms are being exploited.
- Assertion that visas were issued to certain foreign nationals without R&AW/IB/MHA clearance.
Relief Sought
- Immediate intervention to:
- Stop visa issuance based on VIP pressure.
- Strengthen intelligence and security clearances.
- Prevent any compromise of national security.
HELPFUL FOUNDATION
Safeguarding India’s National & Economic Security
About Us
Helpful Foundation is a public-interest organization committed to strengthening India’s national security, economic security, and institutional integrity through research, constitutional advocacy, and policy reform.
We work to identify systemic vulnerabilities in governance mechanisms that may affect national resilience and public trust, and we engage with constitutional authorities to ensure rule-based, transparent, and accountable administration.
Our Core Focus Areas
1. National Security & Institutional Safeguards
We study and highlight structural gaps in administrative and security-related processes, including areas where:
- Discretionary practices override institutional protocols
- Verification and oversight mechanisms require strengthening
- Public systems may be exposed to undue influence
Our approach is preventive and reform-oriented, aimed at strengthening institutions rather than targeting individuals.
2. Governance & Policy Reform
Helpful Foundation believes that strong governance systems are the first line of national defense.
We advocate for:
- Clear statutory frameworks
- Transparent administrative procedures
- Institutional accountability mechanisms
- Separation between discretion and decision-making power
We engage through representations, policy notes, and constitutional dialogue.
3. Constitutional Advocacy & Public Interest Representation
We utilise lawful and constitutional channels to raise matters of public importance, including:
- Submissions to constitutional authorities
- Public grievance and policy representation mechanisms
- Research-backed advocacy for systemic reform
Our work aligns with the Constitution of India, democratic values, and national interest.
Our Guiding Principles
- Nation First – India’s security and integrity above all else
- Rule of Law – Institutions over individuals
- Transparency – Processes must be clear and accountable
- Responsibility – Advocacy without sensationalism
- Integrity – Facts, research, and constitutional methods
Our Approach
Helpful Foundation does not engage in speculation or allegation-driven activism.
We focus on:
- Documented processes
- Policy-level risks
- Institutional improvements
- Preventive governance
Our goal is to strengthen systems before vulnerabilities become crises.
Message to Citizens
National security is not limited to borders or armed forces.
It also depends on:
- Administrative discipline
- Robust verification systems
- Institutional independence
- Public vigilance
An informed and engaged society is essential for a resilient nation.
Disclaimer
Helpful Foundation’s work is focused on policy reform and institutional strengthening.
We do not attribute intent or wrongdoing to any individual or organisation unless established by lawful authority. All representations are made in good faith and public interest.