Walking Through Mangalore Airport Customs - A New Experience


Walter Nandalike
Editor-in-chief

Mangalore, Jul 22 : For the last few days, problems faced by international passengers at Mangalore airport has been one of the hot topics for discussion on daijiworld, social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, and among people in the coastal region and in the Gulf countries.

As the issue gets hotter, many people even though not connected to NRIs have realised the injustice faced by the passengers due to an outdated government law. Now a mainstream print media has also taken up the issue, and justice to NRIs seems to be on the horizon.

While discussions were still at the primary level, I had the opportunity to travel from Dubai along with my family on July 20, landing in Mangalore early morning. But the experience was quite new, where I learnt lots of things and got an opportunity to talk with the customs officers as well as passengers who landed from Dubai and Kuwait within few minutes of each other.

When I arrived at the immigration counter, the officer who is known to me welcomed me with a smile. "What sir, your customs issue has become the talk of the town. Several people called me from the Gulf to enquire whether such problems were really there...and many people in the immigration line have been discussing the same issue," the officer told me.

"Yes sir, people are facing problems. What's your opinion about this?" I asked.

"You know I cannot comment..." he said with a smile.

Now I was a bit hesitant to face the customs officers, as I always find a couple of officers known to me. As expected, I was welcomed in a different tune !

I was accused of publishing a one-sided story, blaming only customs officials and projecting passengers as saints !

"No sir, that was not our intention. Before publishing we studied the matter, but over the last couple of weeks we have been flooded with a number of complaints. If at all our intention was to blame you, we would have published such stories long back...I have been travelling frequently here ever since the international flight operations began in 2006," I said.

"But why was our version not taken ?"

"We contacted one of your assistant commissioners, but he refused to talk to us officially as he does not have the authority. He directed us to meet D Purushotham, the commissioner of customs in Mangalore, but he was not ready to talk to us, and only provided us a 100-page rule book. Our intention was to get the other side of the story from the commissioner but he refused to cooperate...now tell me, how can we be blamed ?" I maintained.

"But before publishing the article, you should have examined the rules..."

"Sir, rules are there since 1960s...but never before were passengers at Mangalore airport 'harassed' so badly. How is it that all of sudden you are implementing this now ?"

"This issue you should take up with the central government, we are helpless and only go according to the rules..." he replied and walked back to his duty.

Even the next officer I spoke to shared a similar feeling, "Walter, we are sad that people bashed us with words like dogs, pigs, and all the animals in the world. Do we deserve this ?"

"Sir, people bashed because they must have been so badly hurt. But upright officers like you need not worry, sir. Only those who do wrong must have caused problems, but surely people have not bashed everyone. They are angry with only those who harass and indulge in corruption," I tried to pacify him.

"It's not an easy job. Checking and verification is our duty. But passengers must cooperate as we are only doing our job. A few days back, a lady who carried about 600 grams gold tried to walk through the green channel. Tell me, is that justified ? When we questioned her, she tried to create a scene here, and accused us of being corrupt. If the same woman is caught outside by the DRI people (sometimes they come for random checking) we will be thrown out from here without any inquiry! Who will understand our problem?"

He does have a genuine problem. Many a time we carry goods beyond the permissible limit and argue with the customs expecting to be let scotfree. Sometimes we want everything for free.

"We understand your situation, sir. Our fight is not for such people. Those who carry goods beyond the limit must be treated according to law. But look at the complaints, many innocents were harassed here..."

"No, we do not buy all those complaints... people may speak of incidents since 2006, we do not know. Officers keep changing here. Also, people complain that we impose tax on jewellery worn on the body. We have never done that. It is not true. A couple of days back a lady came in wearing loads of jewellery, some with brand new tags! Still we were considerate towards her...we don't understand why people are making such allegations," he said.

The body language of the customs officers clearly indicated that they were hurt by the people's accusations.

What surprised me during my almost 90 minutes of presence there was that no passenger was harassed, there were hardly any arguments (otherwise a usual scene), people were questioned quite politely with smiling faces, and none of the passengers faced any problem.

Is this an everyday story ? Or is there a tremendous improvement in their service ? Personally, I have rarely seen such friendly environment there.

I also had the opportunity to meet passengers from Kuwait as well as Dubai. Many of them heaved a big sigh of relief when they came out of the customs. "Lot of talk has been going on, and we were scared to enter the customs. We had to leave some of our gold back in Kuwait as we heard many stories of harassment here in the name of export certificate," said a lady passenger who came with her two kids and husband.

None of the passengers were asked for export certificate.

All that I have narrated is my personal experience, and not the official statement from the customs. To alleviate the fear of thousands of NRIs there is need for an official announcement of rules from the officers in Mangalore. A 100-page rule book does not convey everything. Beware, with this rule book, they have the ticket to harass you any time.

Fight will continue ..

The fight against Mangalore Airport customs will continue until we get to know the official announcement on new rules. There is a strong need for consistency on the part of the officials who should punish only the culprits, and not the innocents in the name of 'export certificate'.

On the other hand, there is also a need for change in the Customs Act 1967 which allows only Rs 10,000 worth gold jewellery for a man and Rs 20,000 for a woman. We are in 2012, and the value of gold has not remained the same as in 1967. Mangalore customs officials are very well aware of this and agree on this point, but they say that they are helpless. People need to put pressure on the central government to amend the Act, they say.

We are taking up this issue through the two MPs from the coastal belt, and also with ministers from state. At the same time, organizations in the Gulf must take active interest and make a concerted effort in this regard. Every association must write to the Prime Minister (who holds the finance ministry) and request him to amend the bill immediately so that NRIs can have hassle-free passage.


J P Hegde's Assurance :

Mangalore MP Nalin Kumar Kateel has extended full co-operation in this regard. He is expected to speak to top customs officials directly.

On the other hand, speaking to Daijiworld, J P Hegde, Udupi - Chikmagalur MP has promised to take up the issue in the parliament. He was surprised about the attitude of the customs commissioner. He assured that he too will talk to him soon.

We the people of this region expect both leaders to forget party politics and work together to get justice for NRIs.


Airport director writes to customs

M R Vasudeva, Mangalore Airport director has gone through the readers' comments on daijiworld, and immediately written a letter to the customs commissioner. He has addressed the genuine issues faced by the people at the airport.


Genuine Complaints

Several readers of daijworld have come up with complaints but without proof. It is not easy to have documentary proof.

Several readers have sent the daijiworld writeup to officials in New Delhi and Bangalore, and have got replies asking for evidence.

S Chandrasekaran, deputy commissioner (vig), directorate of vigilance, customs and central excise, south zone unit, Chennai, has advised all complainants to address the issue to the customs commissioner of Mangalore, but we wrote to him saying that we do not have confidence in D Purushotham as he is not interested in solving the problem, or even listening to the problems. He believes only in the rule book!


Request to readers

Since July 15, 2012, if anyone faces or has faced problems like harassment and demand for bribe, etc, please note down the name of the officer (displayed on their badge), explain the entire incident in detail, provide your flight details, time, date, your email id, and your telephone numbers in both India as well as the country of residence and send it to us at editor@daijiworld.com.

We will take up the complaints with higher officers of customs. If we DO NOT receive feedback then we will publish the content along with the name of the custom officer responsible.

But please keep in mind that we can do this only when you are right !

Our Campaign :

  

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Comment on this article

  • saddiya sheikh, mangalore

    Mon, Nov 17 2014

    I want to know how much custom charges are for 42" inch led tv from muscat? Reply soon please
    thank you

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Parvez,

    Sat, Jul 28 2012

    Walking Through Mangalore Airport Customs - A New Experience

    DisAgree Agree [3] Reply Report Abuse

  • Kiran VSA, Udupi

    Fri, Jul 27 2012

    Congrats Team Daiji world and Walty. You have exposed the rott at the Mangalore Airport. This should initiate some action from Govt / Ministry end. Its surprising to note the lack lustre resonse from Ministry so far. I suggest to get the expert assistance (Advocates, Consumer rights activists, Retired Civil servants etc) to pursue this issue more effectively. The local MPs and MLAs are silent except JP Hegde. Oscar must be playing his mouth organ and doing Yoga.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ma'x, CHIKMAGALUR/Muscat

    Fri, Jul 27 2012

    if they are that honest & hard working!! why is it that they are only checking the quantity of gold when a lady is coming in from abroad. why don't they at least mention to that same lady while she is going abroad to get her gold certificate or what ever valuation certificate mentioned in the earlier Daijiworld article? THEY DON'T EXPECT EVERY PASSENGER TO BE AWARE OF THE RULES & LAWS PASSED DURING 1960'S DO THEY?? OR DO YOU??

    DisAgree [1] Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Joyce Pinto, Mangalore/Dubai

    Wed, Jul 25 2012

    One of the custom officer told Walter, that passengers accused them by calling dogs, pigs etc.! Why should he take those words on him, if he has not done anything wrong? This is only for the gullible custom officers whom I have witnessed harassing the batchelors.
    In our day to day life, many times we are being accused for doing something wrong, but it should not affect us when we are not guilty of it.

    DisAgree Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse

  • oliver, Mangalore/Germany

    Wed, Jul 25 2012

    Dear Prakash,
    You say you were carrying the gold necklace with you worth AED: 3000(Rupees 45000). Being a male passenger your free limit was RS:10000 and was exceeded by RS:35000. For this amount the tax must be approximately RS:12250!!(35%). But you say the Custom officer charged you only RS:500 tax after weighing the necklace?? As a good citizen you paid the tax against Receipt and walked out. Is the Custom officer is a Fool to charge only 500 rupees or is he not enough educated to calculate the Tax?

    DisAgree [1] Agree [3] Reply Report Abuse

  • Merlyn, Mangalore

    Wed, Jul 25 2012

    Dear Mr. Walter,
    Please ask the Govt. to pass a rule so that every custom official displays their ID card with name when on duty. This will help the passengers to take note of their names and file a complaint on them whenever they are harrassed.

    DisAgree Agree [9] Reply Report Abuse

  • Asha, Mangalore

    Wed, Jul 25 2012

    I fully agree with TPA Mangalore. I too am a great fan of daiji. But here i felt that you have taken only NRI's into consideration without first seeking clarification from customs. You should have done more research before publishing the first article. And after all the damage is done to him and staff by way of personal abuse, defamator, infringing, indecent, discriminatory, unlawful text, the new Commissioner was right in his behaviour. Also customs as a whole is blamed and what about the handful of honest officers, not given them any chance at all....

    DisAgree [21] Agree [12] Reply Report Abuse

  • Sam, Mangalore

    Wed, Jul 25 2012

    This particular gold law is in place all over India and seems to being implemented strictly nowadays (probably due to the rising gold import bill). You could have checked this in other airports where this is being implemented. It was unfair to say that it was in vogue only in mangalore. Daiji should have checked with customs first

    DisAgree [6] Agree [9] Reply Report Abuse

  • TPA, Mangalore

    Wed, Jul 25 2012

    Sometimes I am amazed at the mentality of fellow passengers who cry hoarse about corrpution whenever the customs asks them to go through the Red channel. What's the problem when a government official does his duty and asks you to pay taxes as a normal citizen? If you pay the dues diligently, you will get a receipt as proof. The problem is with those who don't want to pay any tax and try to obtain shortcuts. And as for this particular rule, this is not specific to mangalore airport, reports have come from all aiprots across the country, including Bangalore, Chennai, Pune and Mumbai - so alleging that this rule was somehow specific to Mangalore was completely inaccurate. I am a fan of Daiji but I wish there was more research done before publishing the original article. Thanks

    DisAgree [7] Agree [12] Reply Report Abuse

  • sathish.jm, Mangalore, Dubai

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Thanks Daiji & Mr. walter for being the voice of victims. I had been asked to pay duty for 32" LED on last december, for which i was sure it cost less than Rs. 25,000. The made me free only after an hour of argument and I was the last came out of airpot. They threatened me to see nest time. On this july 3rd morning, I gave the bribe AED 200( yes, it was asked in Dirhams) for the 32 grams of used gold ornaments(which could have even been worn on body) my wife was carrying in her hand bag. I was told that I may have to wait for 2 more hours if I have to pay the duty officially in the bank. I Knew giving bribe is a crime but I did it as an ordinary indian for the sake of get a quick relief to my tired family(with 2 kids) from these harassing officers. I never carried the gold in hand bag before and was totally unaware of the duty structure. On argument, I was told that my duty amount would be around Rs.6000. I have even asked them that, is is ok to wear the gold in front of you. The answer was No. Landing on your home land was indeed a nightmare. Hope the rule changes quickly for the benefit innocent passengers.

    DisAgree [3] Agree [9] Reply Report Abuse

  • J.Salian, Mangalore

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Dear Mr.Dinesh Shetty,

    I am not going for comments war, for your kind information security check takes place prior to boarding..ofcourse it is for everyone,s security all must go through and criminals can not carry weapon on board. Let me trying to educate you here, all international flights arriving to Mangalore from middle east and drugs are 10 times more expensive than India (to start with you may struggle to find it because penalty for posession of drug could be death). I don,t know about Brahmavar airport you must be recieving flights from Afganistan/Pakistan/Nigeria or from Iran We are talking about NRI's some of them work 2 years sometimes under50* centigrade, last thing they want before getting out of Airport is harassment by customs goons...

    DisAgree Agree [14] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lancy, Mangalore

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Zaheer, you are right. Actual parking charges are Rs. 40/- but they were taking Rs. 60/- and not issuing any receipt. Things have now changed. Recently I went to a friend to the airport,while leaving I unknowingly paid Rs. 60/-. They politely returned Rs. 20/- and gave me a receipt for Rs. 40/-. I heard this racket was recently busted and all the staff there replaced. I am not sure if this news is authentic. Nevertheless, a note of caution to all the airport car park users, whatever money they demand, ask for a receipt. Reffuse to pay if they are not willing to issue a receipt.

    DisAgree Agree [7] Reply Report Abuse

  • Peter Pinto, Mangalore/ Bangalore

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Indians have been corrupt for the last 5000 years and will continue to be corrupt for the next 5000 years. Even in heaven, you might find many Indians who are creating a scam up there under the very noses of Jesus, Allah, Moses, Eshwara, Buddha, Mahavir, Guru Gobind Singh, etc. Corruption is in our DNA and we cannot do anything about it.

    DisAgree [5] Agree [10] Reply Report Abuse

  • dinesh shetty, brahmavar

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Dear J.Salian

    You mean to say a drug smuggler and an anti social element can also show the first page of passport and pass freely.because it is by order of the president he is doing so.... ! How will customs people separate the genuine passenger and the wrong doer, if you people abuse everyone and obstruct them from doing their duty? Why do you keep quiet when it comes to security check?

    DisAgree [6] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • SF, Mlore

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Very balanced write up dear Walter. However, all the three connected news articles published in this connection have failed to inform the readers as to what the actual Custom duty is payable for import of Gold ornaments. The readers are all confused and are still asking for clarifications. Please enlighten the readers by studying the issue thoroughly rather than trying to be sensational.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [14] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jennifer, Shivbagh

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Is it possible to make people aware of the calculation on total customs paid? Can the customs people be clear on how much they would charge the passenger on goods brought in? As in how they would calculate the total amount to be paid? Say I bring in an LED TV, which costs approx Rs 36,000. According to latest rules published by Daiji after obtaining from customs document, permissible limit is Rs 35,000. So does it mean I pay customs on the excess amount, i.e. Rs 1,000 @ 36%, which is a total of Rs 360 that will be paid? Or is it Rs 36,000 @ 36%, which is Rs 12,960 in total paid? Very often customs people can get away with the calculation and final amount without the passenger being aware. It is possible to write this down clearly for lame persons to understand.

    DisAgree Agree [6] Reply Report Abuse

  • C.U.Rency, Mangalore/Mangalore

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    The customs rules were designed in the 'socialist' era. Many of them are meaningless now.

    I commend those customs officers who are smart and generous enough to recognize that and use their discretion and humanity.

    I think that the rest are only out to further spoil whatever is left of the departments reputation and drag down everyone else with them.

    DisAgree Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • maria, mangalore

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    dear sanjeeth, next time you leave through the airport, being mangalore or any other, ask the customs at departure for an export certificate. the export certificate would be a request from you to the Customs to certify that you are taking some valuable items out of the country and hence it is duty paid in India,the next timeyou come to India, produce this certificate. do this every time you come and go. that way. it takes only 5 minutes of your time. and next time some1 points out the item you just have to return this certificate. i have done it for gold jewellery in Mangalore airport itself and i have not faced any problems yet.

    DisAgree [6] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • maria, mangalore

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Dear Damodar Bhat, could you give me the name of that senior officer in mumbai. I definitely would like to enquire with him where such a rule is written. because every where that i searched the net, it is written as adult above 18 years 2 litres of alcohol.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • KT, MANGALORE

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Why do you need to bring 30kg? you want bring jack fruit, coconut, rice…..?

    DisAgree [4] Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse

  • maria, mangalore

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Dear Lavita, you are right, did you include yourself in the pig sty. first read the rules that are online. surely you know how to go online. or do you need someone to teach you how to do that. as per section 133 of the Customs Act, you can be arrested and put behind bars for six months for abusing and interrupting during discharge of duties. Are you ready to risk it. When a person talks rules, talk rules back. dont abuse.

    DisAgree [4] Agree [8] Reply Report Abuse

  • Thomas, Dubai, Mangalore/Dubai

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Zaheer, thanks for bringing this issue on car parking at mangalore airport, however daiji has published this issue if i remember a year ago and all are aware of the situation unless someone have not read the article in daiji.

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • SUHAS, HEBRI / DOHA

    Tue, Jul 24 2012

    Can some one tell whether this is valid or not

    http://www.cbec.gov.in/travellers.htm

    DisAgree Agree Reply Report Abuse

  • zaheer, mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Thanks a lot for the news about customs in mangalore airport.
    i like to bring one more problem of our airport which is car parking.
    there is a sign board mentioning 60 rupees for premiun parking and 40 rupees for normal parking.
    once i asked the main gate what is the difference when i entered and the man who gave me the pink slip told me when you go out you ask them. when i left the airport i asked the man how much he told me 60 and i told why ? is it not 40 rupees. then he pulled one white reciept of 40 rupees and took 40 only without uttering a word.
    I visited 4 times after that and i paid the same 40 rupees. but i saw many people pay the same 60. and they are not issuing any receipt for 60 rupees that means they take the difference of 20 rupees and put in their pocket.
    if a 1000 cars are parking there everyday that means 20,000 rupees is going to somebody and we dont know to whom.
    if anybody reading this message who have gone to the airport and parked the car imagine what is the difference in normal and premium parking. there is no shelter for premium parking. can diaji team check this matter by sting operation.

    DisAgree Agree [13] Reply Report Abuse

  • Prakash, Mangalore/Dubai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    I don't agree on the below statement done by one of the customer officer
    "people complain that we impose tax on jewellery worn on the body. We have never done that. It is not true. A couple of days back a lady came in wearing loads of jewellery, some with brand new tags! Still we were considerate towards her...we don't understand why people are making such allegations,"

    What is the funda in wearing the jewellary? Just to escape the custom guys? we doesn't like to wear our jewellary(even the used one) during travel, so we always pack it separately & carry it. Does this mean if I dont wear i have to pay customs!
    This was the 2011 incident, when I was carrying the gold necklace (which was forgotten and left in dubai by my family costing around 3000 AED that time). I was sure that custom guy will tax me on this, so I didnt wear a single gram of my gold (even my wedding ring), but still that custom guy enquired me about the necklace and demanded Rs 1000. After lots of arguments I was agreed to pay the tax officially. He bought the scale(which I never seen during departure), weighed the necklace and calculated the tax which came to Rs.500 and I paid and took the receipt.
    I was personally not convinced with the customs behaviour that time. He was also saying the same statement that time. Sir if you wear any gold we dont tax you, but if you carry the jewellary you have to pay the tax? Wear necklace? why!!? This type of harrasement I think generally faced by bachelor's most of the time

    DisAgree [3] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • fais, mlore/shenzhen

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    My question is why do I have to pay Custom charges for what I searched and bought for my self or my dear ones... 1 or 2% is ok.. 16 20 22%..!!!! What the heck... even indians pay so many kinds of tax the benifits of paying tax what is expected by the citizen is 0.! In China low tax and you can find a lot of facilities given to the citizens.. 1 st thing you can see there is every where you will find a police constable who not only helps you to cross the roads also picks up the luggage of old aged people to the other side... Now tell me why I have to pay the Tax in india..!!

    DisAgree [3] Agree [14] Reply Report Abuse

  • Santosh Rathod, Sirsi / Abu Dhabi

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Yes. 100% right.Kinldy think about this. This will help us to use our country products.

    DisAgree [7] Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse

  • Shameer MOhammed, Mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Great job Daijiworld....nice article again........i do agree with Christopher D'Cunha,

    DisAgree Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ravi Shetty, Doha,Qatar

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Some times it has been terrible attitude by some of the customs officials. After finding the gold they catch as if they catch thieves.
    Once my son was travelling alone with two second hand watch(one was mine which was left back),custom guy stopped and took QR.150/- from my son.After hearing the story ,one of our family friends complained directly to the commissioner. Commissioner enquired and suspened the official .We later requested the commissioner not to target any particular individual ,rather try to clean the system.
    Good campaign by Daiji ,I am sure we the travelers will be benefitted.

    DisAgree Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Damodar Bhat, Udupi

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Can a minor carry 2 bottles of Whiskey ? Yes he can ! No customs officer can stop the minor for it.This is because the intended whiskey could be for his parents or relations and not for sale.He can buy & carry but not to consume it.The minor can present it to his family outside the airport arrival door.

    A senior customs officer in Mumbai told me about this.

    DisAgree [5] Agree [3] Reply Report Abuse

  • vikas, dubai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Is 100 page outdated rule is applicable only in Mangalore Airport or in every airport, why mangalore airport is targeted, karnataka has only one International airport, and mangalore is yet to be given a int'l status

    DisAgree [2] Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse

  • Christopher D'Cunha, M'lore/AUH

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Dear Daijiworld, while fighting for the above cause please put forward one more concern i.e. the baggage allowance while coming from the Gulf countries the Airlines could let us carry 30/32kgs and hand baggage allowance 8/10kgs, but the same aircraft can’t carry the same weight while going back? Why the allow only exact 20kgs and 8kgs hand baggage? If we carry more weight (food items) grown by our farmers is in it the income for our people?

    DisAgree [1] Agree [21] Reply Report Abuse

  • Gerald, modankap-bantval

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    LAGHE RAHO WALTER BHAI !!!! THE TENSION WHILE LANDING HIS OWN LAND ONE CANT IMAGINE DUE TO CUSTOMS DRAGONS OR MONSTERS!!!! EVEN THEY ARE ASKING CUSTOMS FOR PETTY THINGS !!!

    DisAgree [4] Agree [19] Reply Report Abuse

  • Victor Alvares, Mangalore/Muscat

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Daiji, you are truly our daiji. Great work. We all have taken you to our hearts.Keep it up.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [23] Reply Report Abuse

  • J.Salian, Mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    This is what written on the 1st page of passport - "These are to request and require in the name of the PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDIA all those whom it may concern TO ALLOW THE BEARER TO PASS FREELY WITHOUT LET THE HINDERANCE AND TO AFFORD HIM OR HER, EVERY ASSISTANCE AND PROTECTION OF WHICH HE OR SHE MAY STAND IN NEED - BY ORDER OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDIA"
    I suggest these so called Customs officers read this first...this is by order from PRESIDENT of INDIA. All those coming from abroad show your passport 1st page and ask the customs officer in charge to read it..and record their comments.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [16] Reply Report Abuse

  • Henry Lewis, Sastan/Kuwait

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Great Work by Daiji World the customs rule must be changed as per the time and value of the goods change it is n o t realistic to implement the the one sided rules as the value has changed during the years.I trust Daijiworld will fight for the justice we are with you

    DisAgree Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lancy, Mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Sanjeeth - help desk,helpline, CCTV Cameras are useless even if there is one. There must be a honest Supervisor on the top of these officers who is not corrupt. Otherwise harassment to suit their intentions will continue. I have seen personally not once but a few times passengers specially
    carrying LCD of any size or make are stopped, asked to pay (not as customs duty) but under the table and this is done openly without any fear by a group of individuals at Mangalore Airport.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Shakir Hussain, Dubai/Mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Thanks alot Daijiworld for your excellent work

    DisAgree Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • LISTON, MANGALORE

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    ref to all these issue i would like to bring into notice a small issue .
    the customs officers in mangalore are been the best , the point is ( the agents) . my experience , there are some ground staff of aircraft company who are creating all these problems . when my cousin arrived from dubai ,it was absolutely no items which were under customs , one watch he bought it for me was just a titan watch not even INR 2000 , the staff of the air craft said to my cousin , customs officers will check you so we will help you in this movement, we will take you safe , and these staff who will come out with the passenger and demand for money , saying customs officer demands so much and we have taken risk of this bringing you out safely , this happened infront of me, than i warned the staff ,than he kept quite, after we reached home there was continues call from the staff side demanding money . so this is the problem , what is the duty of the ground staff ?

    DisAgree [3] Agree [8] Reply Report Abuse

  • Sanjeeth, Mangalore/Dubai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Thank Daiji, great job.

    But just a quick question, just in case we are harrased for no reason is there a helpdesk or helpline which is going to hear our plea? For example each time i go with my camera which is for my personal use (which am ready to in my passport) am asked to pay duty... this is cruel and makes no sense, when i asked show me your rule book which says i cannot carry a DSLR , the customs states everything cannot be stated , soemthing we need to understand !! now what do you say to that ??

    DisAgree Agree [9] Reply Report Abuse

  • sharaf, Dubai/Mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    well done daiji...great work,we always with u.
    when i am in kuwait that time i faced problem/harrasment in mangalore airport,but clearly i don't knw tat officer name.next week i am going to mangalore,i will try to find that officer name/photo,if i sucess to find that corrupted officer i will send u his name/photo

    DisAgree [1] Agree [17] Reply Report Abuse

  • vincy lobo, pernal/pangla/dubai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    great job Mr.Walter&whole daiji team.salute to all of you.but keep continue till official annoncement comes.may be the custom team knows you personely very well&thats why they showed politeness on that day.all poor passangers need a justice.in 10,000rps now only approx 5gms gold comes.they must change their rule.all are with you to support.god bless Daijiworld entire team.one great thing here i noticed that,daijiworld is the true fighter...not our seniour ministers of karnataka.they only kar...nataka.God Bless you Walter&Team.

    DisAgree Agree [7] Reply Report Abuse

  • stevi, Pakshikere

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Last time I did not commented because I did not faced any problems and in fact I was praising the authorities for their extremely good gestures towards all passengers. But recently incidents I could not believe what all happened. There are few people who really want to take advantage of this customs politeness and because of this the authority must have raised the alarm and that’s it. Mr. Walter you have done a great job God Bless you. People of Mangalore are gentle man and I am sure this perception will change very soon.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [6] Reply Report Abuse

  • KT, Mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Rehna, Mangalore/Dubai, Thanks for the info, What happens if the total value is 35k? then the duty to be paid on 10k only? Any advice?

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Zahoor Ahmed, Karkal / Dammam

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Thanks Daiji for your efforts

    DisAgree [1] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • akshay, mangalore / Dubai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Dear Daiji

    Great job done som one need take a leadership on such causes and you are doing the right thing Please also take up this issue to Lokayuktha office , they can keep check on this kind of corruptions Also on another note you need to take up another issue to break the monopoly of Airindia express why they block other airlines to fly to managlore possible you can file RTI on behalf of all NRIS to find out which loby is stopping this process of getting other airlines to managalore

    DisAgree Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • Anil Piinto, Puttur / DUbai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Daiji is doing wonderfull job..hatts of MR Walter Nandalike.we really apreciate your effort...keep it up...God Bless you...Jai Ho Daijiworld...

    DisAgree Agree [6] Reply Report Abuse

  • joboy, mlore/dubai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Dear Daiji team, why dont you give a clear picture of the customs law present at this moment. Which goods are duty free, which goods are taxable, their permissible limit etc etc. i think we should start from the scratch and know the basic laws before we complain against anyone.

    DisAgree Agree [6] Reply Report Abuse

  • Daya Kirodian, Mangalore/Dubai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Dear Walter,

    NO matter what happens. Please continue your fight against corruption. You may face alegations or life threat but end of the day your fight is to the benefit of the society. Blessings of the millions of people will guard you and your family members. God bless you. Thanks to daiji team for uplifting this issue.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [18] Reply Report Abuse

  • Anand, Karkala/Dubai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    There nothing wrong by Customs Officers in Bajpe Airport and the blame should go to the Govt. of India - Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This is the high time to consider this matter seriously, and take up the issue in the Parliament to make necessary amendments.
    We will feel happy if the Customs Officers charge something nominal in way of bribe for dutiable items. Am I right?

    DisAgree [8] Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • Anil Menezes, Shirva

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    I came from kuwait on 13 july. When the bags arrived I saw the cross marks and they asked me to scan. In one bag there was needo milk powder and in other some frozen food items . They said these are not allowed. I said i am bringing these since so many years they said i need to get a certificate stating that they are fit for human consumption! (they said they are allowing this time but not to bring from next time ). Can any one tell me whether customs policy prohibits these items specially milk powder ? Daiji can u check the rules?

    DisAgree [3] Agree [26] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ivan Frank, Mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Very good work undertaken by Daiji Team and Mr. Walter in highlighting the difficulties faced by the travelers at the hands of some custom officials. We are very grateful to you for taking up this matter with the higher officials and People's representatives. It is high time they realise not to take people for granted and treat them with dignity and respect.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [12] Reply Report Abuse

  • Pradeep Shenoy, Mangalore/USA

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    This is one of the several issues plaguing our community and nation as a whole. The community-at-large should unite and address corruption and bribery from elected officials whose primary role is to serve the general public and uphold the law, not misuse it to their own benefit. Seems like customs officials in Mangalore were hiding behind the antiquated laws of 1967 in regards to price of gold allowed in and thereby using it to their advantage to harass people and take bribe.

    Simply pathetic!!

    Publishing such events to the world to see and also publishing the names of the concerned officials involved in this corrupt racket is the best way to mitigate the issue. Given that corruption lies even at the highest echelons of govt establishments, the only way is to make them public and let the law take its course.

    Democracy does not function if people do not take active role and laws are not enforced properly.
    The genesis of such corrupt officials is the direct result of poor people participation in community affairs.

    Excellent work by Daijiworld team. Hats off to you and best wishes.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [13] Reply Report Abuse

  • Pavan Kumar, Mangalore/Abu Dhabi

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Thanks Mr. Walter for your wonderfull job and efforts taken for helping the NRI. Like Daji only the media can do to open the eyes of our sleeping rulers. But don't come accorss our Mangalore Custom officers the movement dummy act. They all are same and they each other involved in this pehenomina. I have had expeirienced a lot from Managalore Airport. Now I am travelling through Bombay to avoid these all tuff born customs officers.

    DisAgree [3] Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ken, M'lore/USA

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Thanks a mil Walter & team.. presume this effort of Daiji will help us have a pleasant experience while landing in M'lore...
    Together we can !

    DisAgree [2] Agree [6] Reply Report Abuse

  • Bulsam, Mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    There should be a passanger grievence counter staffed with well known customs related lawyers inside the customs duty area. There should be more CCTV around the customs checking region with a monitor also at this special grievence counter to check the illegal dealings by the corrupt customs afficials.

    DisAgree Agree [8] Reply Report Abuse

  • M.SHAMEEM ANSARI, BANGALORE / BAHRAIN

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    UPA Govt.must wake up from deep slumber and solve this problem as soon as possible! The central govt must must have hold on the custom officers while implimenting rules proprely.this attitude of custom officer is to gain for their personal benifits.

    DisAgree Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Anil, Mangalore

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Thanks Daiji for fighting good cause and social justice. Hope the custom rules change soon and everybody travel without tension.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [6] Reply Report Abuse

  • Felix lobo, Bajpe/Saudi arabia

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Thanks Walty.
    if this harrassement continue in bajpe airport,dont be surprised all NRI passengers will come via other distinations

    DisAgree Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Tousik Ahamed , Dubai

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Very well done Mr.Walter, we all appreciate you in this regard.
    I had same issue with custom this JUL 2.

    DisAgree Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Mohan H Naik, Mangaluru

    Mon, Jul 23 2012

    Please check this link.
    http://www.indiabaggagerules.com/2008/01/frequently-asked-questions-faqs.html

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Santhosh, Mangalore/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    well done Mr.Walter Nandalike. when we are travelling From Dubai to Mangalore we need peace of mind first mangaloreans are fedup from AIE, again in Airport Custom problem.at least i belive now we get peace of mind. Thanks Daiji team really your team is voice of Mangalore.

    DisAgree Agree [3] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rehna, Mangalore/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Mr. KT
    Free allowance for tourists of Indian origin is Rs25,000 per passenger including 2 Liters of Whisky/Wine & 200 Nos of cigrattes. One Lap Top computer is allowed as duty free for adult passenger

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rony, Pernal

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Well done Mr:Walter........keep-it up.
    god bless you.........

    DisAgree [1] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • siddapur abdul raheeman saheb, siddapur/karnataka/saudia

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Good works by Daiji world particulary Mr.Walter Nandalike.Sir,let Managaluru air port customs should visit Channi airport customs and feel the difference and introduce the same system here.

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Louis, Kuwait

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    @Jaimini PB, very well said. Both your comments are very fascinating. Nalin Kumar cannot express his feelings even if he want to. This way Hegde is far more better n he speaks sensibly without any empty promises or boastings. I haven't gone through Ravi Belegeres any episodes. Appreciate your good gesture towards Daijiworld & Mr. Walter. Daijiworld is the only media for us to express our feelings n problem which reaches the masses. Thanx.

    DisAgree Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • abu saad, Mangalore/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Now Daiji is our saviour, we all depend on them. Along with Daiji why dont we approch the ministers?

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Austin Santhosh, Haleangadi/Bahrain

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Walter, No one in Mangalore Customs are saints! They should have complained about their co-workers who are accused of taking bribe. We should have a "CBI Office in the Airport"!

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • C.U.Rency, Mangalore/Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    In 1967 : 1 USD = 7.54 INR 10000.INR=1326.25USD

    In 2012 : 1 USD = 55.30 INR
    1325.25USD = 73342.18 INR

    DisAgree Agree [3] Reply Report Abuse

  • Helen D'Souza, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thank you Walter for your well detailed (detained) on issue at Mangalore Airport. May Good Lord take away all the obstales on your path so that we hear the good news from you very soon.

    DisAgree Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lesly Saldanha, Shirva/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Walty And Team. Good Work. As informed by custom officer All are not bad. We too experience in our working atmostsphere. If possible we raise the same concern regarding monopoly of Air India Express. We are paying High price for ticket let our people fly with Air India instead of air india express. & Allow other airline to land in mangalore.

    DisAgree Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • RONS, UDUPI

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Interesting thing is that, how this new Customs officer got passed in Public service Exam! He should have analyzed the value 1967 till current. How shame it is to ask us to read outdated hand book to read!!!

    DisAgree Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rion, udupi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Custom officials dealt with Walter in a friendly manner of course , well accepted. DEAR OFFICERS, IF A LADY BROUGHT 600GMS OF GOLD OR 6KILO OF GOLD, DEAR CUSTOM OFFICIALS ITS YOUR DUTY TO WEIGHT TRANSPARENTLY WITH ORIGINAL CUSTOMS RECEIPT, BUT NEVER TAKE THEM ASIDE AND ASK TO YOUR POCKET 5000/- INSTEAD OF 50,000/- NEVER YOU SHOULD HAVE COME DOWN. BUT NOW, AS PER THE CURRENT PRICE INDEX MINIMUM OF 6LAKHS WORTH OF GOLD NEED TO BE ALLOWED. ITS VERY CLEAR THAT THERE ARE PLENTY OF RULES WHICH ARE NOT AMENDED, AND ALL CORRUPT GOVT. OFFICIALS TAKING THIS OPPORTUNITY. EACH INDIVIDUAL IS RESPONSIBLE TO CREATE CORRUPT LESS CLEAN SOCIETY. THANKS FOR THE PUBLIC FOR THE SUPPORT, IN THIS COLUMN. ALSO PLEASE RAISE VOICE AGAINST OTHER NECESSARILY REQUIRED MATTERS. IRONICALLY OR SERIOUSLY, WHY WALTER CANT BE A SUITABLE PERSON FOR PROMINENT POLITICIAN IN NEAR FUTURE WITH DAIJI?

    DisAgree Agree [15] Reply Report Abuse

  • Anisha, Mangalore/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Hi Walter well done now can u tell me how much gold we cam wear and how much we can carry , if u guide me i am most greatful to u thank waiting for u r reply

    DisAgree Agree [9] Reply Report Abuse

  • Shammi, Karnataka

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    We understand some loyal custom officials,but even they should understand our situation.As we all know we are landing mlore airport which has table toprunway.And see the timings for gulf bound flights all are after 12 am.The passenegrs undergo lots of trauma especially a women with kids and lonely woman.If a flight lands safely that itself is a worldcup for a gulf NRI'S.Out of all aviophobia when a passemger lands the airport ,just imagine the official asking for bribery,WHAT SHOULD WE DO?should we have warm COLGATE SMILE.we are
    Filled with tensions n trauma....so please dont eat our head.Woman should be allowed 200 gms of gold n men 100 gms.It shouldnt rely on money ,coz gold rate keeps changing.So fix it in gms.Sincere request to Daiji ,plz initiate RTI act by writing to PM.Justice should be sought to any cost.we get valuable things from our hard earned money.IT is our possession ,no customs has a write to bribe it.

    DisAgree [3] Agree [43] Reply Report Abuse

  • murthy, mangalore/dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Good Job by Mr. Walter & Co....We cannot rationlize the system, there are some officers who are shrewd and talk nonsense. Once I had the same problem in 2010 december. I was travelling to mangalore on emergency due my mother's sudden demise and I had only one small brief case. When I reached the customs scanning as usual bag has been scanned and came out from the machine. When I suppose to pick the bag the customs officer standing next to machine asking me in Hindi " Bag me kithna Bottle Hai". I was very angry and smilingly I asked him then what did you see in the x-ray machine. It means you or your people not checking properly when it passes the machine. Suddenly he realized his nonsense, and meanwhile one officer who was talking in Tulu came and told me that Sir,you carry on.
    And he apologized for the inconvenience.
    What I mean to say is what ever the government order is, officers are also human beings and they can politely behave with the people. No need to treat everybody like criminals.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [26] Reply Report Abuse

  • pradeep shetty, manglore/abu dhabi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    n 1967 gold rate wase Rs. 34/- per grams and now it is approx 2000/- per gram. as per 1967 rules women can wear arond 588 grams of gold and now only 10 grams. why the government of India passing the bill as per the letest rate of gold?

    DisAgree [1] Agree [40] Reply Report Abuse

  • anil vas, batwal/abu dhabi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    good job.
    We citizens are bound by the Law which is very clear - except jewellery, bring personal effects upto.... value.
    So LAW has to be changed.
    What is the use of fighting with the customs people. they are doing their job. Imagine if we were in customs people place, we would have been worse (surely!).
    So work for changing the LAW of our country which is governed by the CBEC.

    once this is changed, you are free to bring 5 kgs if permitted.

    DisAgree [7] Agree [14] Reply Report Abuse

  • Bekal s raj, Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    thank you walter.thank you daijiworld.com

    DisAgree [1] Agree [16] Reply Report Abuse

  • John, Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Walter & DW Team

    Excellent job!!!! An amicable solution is within our reach. Full credit goes to your team. More of it is your co-ordination between the Daijiworld readers, customs officials and politicians. This is a right example of collective efforts about how to bring the changes in our society. You have played a anchor role on public voices.GREAT!!!!

    DisAgree [1] Agree [14] Reply Report Abuse

  • Kiran, Katpadi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    The truth is that only few people have objection. only 5% of total turnout.

    DisAgree [4] Agree [7] Reply Report Abuse

  • anand, mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    When i arrived last week , Mangalore customs officials were very rude. Food items like sausages are not allowed. I request Airport authority to install CCTV to monitor Custom officers.This should be connected to central Govt. Senior officials. So that they can see the corrupt officials live show.

    DisAgree [4] Agree [16] Reply Report Abuse

  • HPP, Mangalore/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Very well done Mr.Walter, we all appreciate you in this regard.
    I also caught by these customs officer last January 2012 for carrying car stereo worth of Rs 4,000. I argued with them for approx. I hr & after that, they allowed me to go without paying anything.

    Also,we fed up with this AI exp also. Please do some thing in this regard...

    DisAgree Agree [13] Reply Report Abuse

  • KT, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    What exactly is the rule? Is it if the value of your baggage (except gold) exceeds Rs 35,000/= they you have to pay duty? Does this include Laptop as well? Can some one make clear this?

    DisAgree Agree [6] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ronnie, Kinnigoli/Canada

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    I haven’t experienced any harassment of significant nature from the customs in the past 10 years. Probably my situation is slightly different from many of the readers who have experienced their experiences here. Neither I wear jewelry nor carry any in my baggage. I don’t buy and carry any electronics which is being sold or that can be purchased in India. Female members of my family wear simple gold jewelry common with Indian tradition and attire. Definitely that jewelry weighs more than 20 grams for each person. We use Mumbai airport as there are no direct fights to Mangalore from North America. We always use the green channel and then we proceed to the domestic terminal for Mangalore flight. This time at Mumbai, I was taken aside after the screening of the baggage and being questioned for the electronics stuff that I had in the bag. It was a Canon Digital SLR camera body and couple of lenses that go on that body all nicely tucked in professional carry backpack. The guy told me that is dutiable and valued at INR 100,000 and demanded my passport! I explained my situation saying that I have been bringing in and taking back that gear for the last 2 years and no one demanded any duty on that. Next he wanted to check was my return ticket. After showing that piece of evidence he apologised and let me go. I don’t consider this as harassment but after reading the responses of the people here I feel that the custom officials are fishing for easy targets.

    First of all, why they demand for our passport as soon as they pull as aside? Are we going to run away from the scene? If they are going by the law book then it is high time that NRIs from the region should talk to the local MPs put pressure on them to change the duty free limit on the jewelry worn to a realistic rupee value or to avoid confusion announce/publish the duty free limit in grams of gold. Discussed procedure of export certificate is not practical. All these hurdles will alienate NRIs from the motherland

    DisAgree [1] Agree [17] Reply Report Abuse

  • jerald, DUBAI

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thanks Walter for your detailed review. Based on the allegations by the custom officer you just imagine most of the passengers were earning low and middle class salary in UAE and labour class level Most of them travelling once in 2 years .During that period they take some credit from their friends and buying maximum 20 to 30 grams of gold for their loved once. These officers simply making allegations now.

    DisAgree Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • Wilson Praveen, Neerude / Muscat

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Mr. Walter I salute you for your great job. Don't depend on the political leaders they know to beg the votes but they can't understand the problems facing by a common man. They get what they want from the government as well as from the people even though without raising voice in the parliament or turnig face after 5 years to public. You continue your work. Your effort and support of common people will lead you into success. may God Bless You.

    DisAgree Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse

  • lawrence, mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    hats of to daijiworld team.my humble request with muthalik&anna hazare to raise this issue in public.where is ramasene they can see only pubs and churches.if they hav guts go to the airport and cath the corupt customs officiars then i can also say that ramasene is doing good job.i think customs officers are thinking that we are getting gold in trees.people are earning in gulf countrys in extreemly hot weather and extereemly cold and also sandstrom.

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • laveena lobo, mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    thanks daiji.. & well done mr.walter.. ..

    DisAgree Agree [3] Reply Report Abuse

  • Maurice D'Mello, Toronto

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Well, keep up the good work (pressure) Walter, the customs officials should be properly oriented by their boss. It is not to harass passangers, but to be kind and cooperative. If they have paid large sums to get into to this job, it is not the passangers' fault and let them not try to milk the passangers dry to recover their investment.

    Most importantly, many of the passangers are un-aware of the rules and regulations of the customs and secondly customs rules must be uniform, not different from Sahar airport in Mumbai or else, Mangalore airport will be empty, sans passangers, who will take other airports to arrive in India.

    Wearing, carrying gold jewellery is the right of every Indian woman and it required, the customs can ask the passangers to it and take back with them, but not to be harrassed by the customs.

    DisAgree Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse

  • Herbert Joseph Meenzes, Barkur

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    God bless Daiji & Editor Walty. Truth will come out soon

    DisAgree Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lavita, Manglore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    These pigs will not improve. This is our country and our place and no body can kick us out so when ever any custom guy harasses you just call public help if one guy gets beating every one will improve.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Navaz Thokur, Addoor/AlJubail

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Well Done Mr. Walter.. Keep it up..

    DisAgree Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lancy Noronha, Bellore-Bendur-Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Mr.Walter Nandalike,we salute you sir, we need MPs like you- {personality} & our intentions too. Thanks for your courtesy...appreciated.

    At "Lancy-Mangalore"...
    Dear,Lancy...43" inch TV is not allowed as per customs terms/conditions. Customs duty advisable {if cargo DXB-Mangalre, then, Aed 1740 duty will be paid}. Without duty allowed - if you are going for good only & with proper docs, Embessy attested AUTH,under "T.R."
    Generally, 32" T.V.allowed & there is no TAX.
    You are really luckiest...be happy dear.

    DisAgree Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jaimini P.B., Manipal,Sharjah

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Louis,Kuwait..I have been reading Ravi Belgere's Hi Bangalore for the past 14 years.I may skip my dinner but not HI BANGALORE ! Even in Sharjah,I buy HI from Pakistani shop keeper every week ! Dear Luis..for every good work there will be criticism..that is nature law.Mr.Belgere is also having professional enemies.Tomorrow,when Mr.Walter(Daiji) becomes national figure,I am sure he will be having enemies..that time I stand by Walter..may be I will be arguing with someone HOW WALTER IS,AND WHAT WALTER IS ..

    DisAgree [1] Agree [28] Reply Report Abuse

  • Anthony Quadras, Mangalore/Doha

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thank you Mr.walter.Very well done Daiji,Please continue the pressure till the rule get change.Some passengers have already changed their route via Calicat,bangalore,Goa,or Bombay.We really appreciate your effort...keep it up until justice is done God bless you...

    DisAgree Agree [26] Reply Report Abuse

  • Laxman, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    My dear Lancy, Mangalore. you are wrong. First of all I like to thank Mr. Walter raising this issue. This is an eye opener. Mr. Lancy You are encouraging the customs officer by bribing Rs.3000/ and spoiling custome officer as well as NRI's reputation. When you can buy 43" Lcd TV cheaply from abroad, you can also pay what ever the duty is levied and come out. It would have cleared your conciousness. Fortunately, special custom squad did not stop you near the airport exit. You could have got in to more trouble. Do not get hurt while paying the government because government need your money for your service and to pay the staff salary. No doubt Government is corrupt but we are making them corrupt.Majority of our people (sometime me) are greedy and impatient. Always trying find fault with others. dear Lancy Have a happy viewing.

    DisAgree [4] Agree [37] Reply Report Abuse

  • jagdish , Bajpe, UAE

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Similar case to Mr. Lancy, Few weeks back i took 32inch LED of samsung from EROS duba. When i got down in the airport, custom officers are like eagles looking for prey, stopped me and asked me to see other guy. I met him and He told me that this 42inch LED. I said 32 Inch LED which is not custommable, Immediately he took me to other side and took one price list and said cost of the TV is 46000 Indian ruppes.

    I told him very politely, We will make a deal pay me only 35000 Indian rupees you can keep the TV with you. Even if he keep the TV still i gain 12000 Indian rupees. By the time another Custom officer joined, i explained what has happened, Both discussed for few minutes and asked me to go. I came out without paying anything. before leaving from there i argued them to have a good attitude.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [43] Reply Report Abuse

  • Prathima, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thanks to Daiji team... to bring out the issue and creating this pressure. Hope the NRI's wont be harrased. Keep up the good Work...

    DisAgree [2] Agree [18] Reply Report Abuse

  • NAVEEN MAYYA, DUBAI

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    They mark "X" on the bulky bag even if you carry paper carton. They did that for me when I carried household things. strange people

    DisAgree [3] Agree [27] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rajesh Gonsalves, Mangalore / Cairo

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    I feel it is better to amend the law so as to allow a certain quantity of gold in weight rather than in amount. For eg. 20 gm. This way the govt can ensure that they need not amend the bill every now and then so as to adjust with current gold prices.

    DisAgree Agree [19] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jaimini P.B., Manipal,Sharjah

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Mr.Damodar Bhat..I agree with your comment to some extent and not fully.Mr.Nalin Kumar didn't open his mouth in Pariament because to speak in Parliament one has to know either English or Hindi.Unfortunately,our MP knows only Kannada and Tulu ! Thats why not only twin district politicians,our state politicians too face problems in communicating with Delhi leaders.There was a rumour once that Mr Yeddy should have become BJP High command leader instead of Gadkari,same problem...NO HINDI,NO FULENT ENGLISH.(he speaks english,but not fluently).Thats why most of the time our politicians become mere spectator in Delhi.
    I think in this case(customs),only J.P.Hegde can fight and aruge in Parliament (if he wishes).He is a lawyer by profession with good English.I am happy that Daiji report will be discussed in Delhi..(Thats what I COMMENTED IN PREVIOUS ARTICLE)

    DisAgree [2] Agree [46] Reply Report Abuse

  • Shekar Moily Padebettu, Udipi/India

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Hats off Mr.Walter.Timely involvement for the benefit of lot of gulf travellers.There are many MLA,MPS,Ministers and so called bureaucrats from the coastal belt but they are good for nothing.But your timely involvement is truly praiseworthy.Definitely something positive will come out of this fight.Although I am not a NRI Passenger now I really appreciate the move taken and initiative taken by Mr.Walter Nandalike,whom I know personally for the benefit of many gulf bound passengers.Wishing all the best in your fight for your right.Best of luck.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [13] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jeet, mangalore/dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Walter,
    Hats off to you.within days you have done which nobody has done ever i guess.Congrats to you & ur team for efforts put in for NRI brothers & sisters.GOD BLESS THE ENTIRE DAIJI TEAM.KEEP UP THE GOOD DEEDS.I AM PROUD TO BE A DAIJI READER.

    MR.WALTER HOW MUCH GOLD CAN WE BRING AS OF NOW?IF YOU CAN PUBLISH THE EXACT QTY FOR MEN & WOMEN.

    DisAgree Agree [12] Reply Report Abuse

  • Alwyn, Udupi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    A grand salute to Mr. Walter, Keep up the good work.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [14] Reply Report Abuse

  • Peter, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    WE NEED TO APPEAL THE GOVT. TO CHANGE THE LAW. IF THE LAW IS OF 1967 THE VALUE OF GOLD WAS Rs. 700 to 720/10GMS AT THAT TIME AND NOW ITS Rs.26000 to 29,000 FOR 10gms.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [9] Reply Report Abuse

  • Louis, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Custom Officers,
    Every problem has a solution, i suggest this solution to solve entire problem. Please pass a bribe bill of each category baggage, so we can pay without any arguments. all we know without paying you guys will not aloow us go home.. I'm right?

    DisAgree [2] Agree [16] Reply Report Abuse

  • Yes Pee, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Lage raho Walter Bhai...

    DisAgree Agree [15] Reply Report Abuse

  • Aubb, Kuwait

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    I fully agree with Peter Sequeira, Udupi/Kuwait(Sunday,July22) about every passenger recording the tamasha on video the moment they land at M'Lore, and submit as evidence to take strict action against arrogant officials as one cannot prove it otherwise.
    Daiji world/media must be available to gather this evidence for further action too.
    It is hightime NRIs/business travellers form a powereful union to fight all kind of corruption, lack of service and delays causing financial losses to passengers, as well as to boycott Air India Express for good for their "EXCELLENT" service.

    Aviation minister, local MPs, MLAs must be taken in procession for this great achievment in Coastal K'taka.

    As for me, I've boycotted M'lore airport since I can hardly remember.

    I would suggest passengers to take flights to Mumbai/B'lore instead and reach M'lore either by road or air.

    By the way, I read in Udayavani an ad from Durgamba service that they operate A/c Volvo to B'lore Int'l Airport (if it suits your timings).

    Kerala passengers also must boycott M'lore airport for good.

    NRIs and others contribute so much to the region, and yet we are forced to accept shoddy services at the hands of our own people.

    Tourism and business potential of our regions is under exploited due to the negligence of all concerned, not forgetting the greedy and corrupt leaders who lack vision and foresight.

    Boycott M'lore airport!!

    Boycott M'lore airport!!

    Jai ho all passengers to from M'lore!!!

    Thanks to all media coverage and effort on behalf of all air passengers using M'lore hub.

    DisAgree [7] Agree [16] Reply Report Abuse

  • Leslie Fernandes, Brahmagiri, Udupi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    IN THIS ISSUE THERE IS RIGHT AND WRONG ON BOTH SIDES.
    WE CAN NOT SAY ALL PASSENGERS ARE RIGHT OR ALL CUSTOMS OFFICERS ARE WRONG.
    GREED IS THE ROUTE CAUSE FOR MISERY , GRIEF AND INCONVENIENCE.
    WE ARE NOT WITNESSING THE KIND OF CHEAP HARASSMENT NOW A DAYS WHICH USED TO BE A REGULAR AFFAIR 15 YEARS BACK IN MUMBAI AIRPORT.
    HOWEVER FEW OFFICERS TAKE ANY POSSIBLE OPPORTUNITY TO GO IN WRONG WAYS.
    AS MR. WALTER RIGHTLY POINTED OUT PEOPLE MUST MAKE FACTS AVAILABLE TO PUBLIC DOMAIN WHENEVER THEY ARE WRONGFULLY HARASSED.
    MAIN POINT HERE IS THAT LAW ABIDING PASSENGERS MUST BE ABLE TO TRANSIT FREELY WITHOUT ANY FEAR.
    HOWEVER GENERALISING CUSTOMS SERVICE IN MANGALORE AIRPORT AS BAD IS NOT THE RIGHT APPROACH.

    DisAgree Agree [10] Reply Report Abuse

  • Vincent, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Going from the comments here I notice that most people who talk about bribes also are aware that tthey are breaking the rules. It is common knowledge for example that TV's over 32 inches and alcohol over 2 liters is dutiable. Yet we have people who openly profess to take larger TV's and several liters of alcohol and bribe their way through customs.
    Surely the briber as well as the officer accepting the bribe are guilty??
    I have not been personally troubled by the Customs people in Mangalore as I travel light. I am also reasonably sure that the customs people frquently bully timid & helpless passengers..... but in my humble opinion people who bribe to get away with an illegal act, do not deserve anyone's sympathy either.

    DisAgree Agree [14] Reply Report Abuse

  • Suhail, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Mr Walter,
    Don't allow politicians hijack this agitation and take credit for it...You and we can do it ourselves..Even politicians are like custom officers who think that NRI s work in gold mines...And parting away with some money is no big deal for them... They don't realize that there are also poor laborers who work day and night abroad just to support their family....Mr Walter, God bless you and your team.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [16] Reply Report Abuse

  • Melcom Lewis, Kallianpur/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Well done Water, you and your team is doing a great job.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [8] Reply Report Abuse

  • HK, Inna , Bahrain

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thanks daiji for your sincere efforts for streamlining the system. The restrictions of bringing gold with the passengers may give a good business for smugglers. Amendment of customs law is the need of the hour. We like your style of journalism..! keep it up..

    DisAgree Agree [8] Reply Report Abuse

  • Reema Shetty, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    No words...thank you Daiji...love u..:)

    DisAgree Agree [17] Reply Report Abuse

  • maria, mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Good job.
    We citizens are bound by the Law which is very clear - except jewellery, bring personal effects upto.... value.
    So LAW has to be changed.
    What is the use of fighting with the customs people. they are doing their job. Imagine if we were in customs people place, we would have been worse (surely!).
    So work for changing the LAW of our country which is governed by the CBEC.

    once this is changed, you are free to bring 10 kgs if permitted.

    DisAgree [9] Agree [11] Reply Report Abuse

  • kiran, Dubai/mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    daiji world doing great job for Mangalore airport Users. keep it up. Pls solve the problem.

    DisAgree Agree [7] Reply Report Abuse

  • cooljay004@yahoo.com, Mlore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Mr.Walter, Kudos to you & your dedicated team of M/s.Daijiworld. You have brought alive a issue that has been ignored by all, including myself. Truth hurts and that's what the custom official are feeling guilty about. I'm sure there are many good people in the airport services, but there are equally bad people too. Please keep this issue alive until the authorities find a suitable solution. And from our side we will support you for all the good causes you take up, for the resident indians as well as the NRI. Please dont forget the contribution of the NRI's, we are slogging here to support our family and in return helping our nation too. Best Regards.,

    DisAgree [1] Agree [14] Reply Report Abuse

  • Uday Rodrigues, Mangalore / Riyadh

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Great Job Mr. Walter. Hats Off to you!

    DisAgree Agree [7] Reply Report Abuse

  • Dinesh, Karkala

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Well done Walteranna, I salute your effort and sincerity in this regard. (Deverna Ashirvada ereg thikkad, masth bangodu benthina kash, enculu moolu lootodhina kash ath, varshogu ora urugu bannga Airportude aphin kasta priayara malthar)

    The best thing is that to install CCTV inside the Airport and it should cover each and every corner of the Airport.

    Jai Hind and Jai Daijiworld.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [17] Reply Report Abuse

  • Mark, Udyavara

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Fake Bill, Fake money, Fake people, you can find them in abundance in INDIA, esp. the customs, govt offices, bureaucratic offices.

    World is not as what they think sitting like a frog in the pond. It is time their literacy sees beyond their mean-ness and stop being jealous of the people coming from abroad.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [41] Reply Report Abuse

  • Louis, Kuwait

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    @Jaimini PB, Ravi Belegere is condemned a lot on TV Channels for exposing some innocents is that right?

    DisAgree Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • FAZIL, DXB

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Walty,
    Pls keep tab on both MP's lets see who will approach first and sort out the Issues.

    DisAgree Agree [45] Reply Report Abuse

  • Naveen Shetty, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    The best way to come out of this is to file a PIL with the Chief Justice of India. Even a simple letter addressed to him will suffice in this matter. All the laws of the land should be in track with the new developments and should be dynamic. The major problem faced by travelers is about the gold carried by them. I presume the existing limit was fixed during 1966 as per the above article. if so we can ask the court to increase this limit adjusted for inflation and depreciation in Indian Rupee. (If this was fixed in some later year it has to be revised accordingly) and only courts or parliament can do this.

    DisAgree [3] Agree [24] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rakesh Dsouza, Mangalore, Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Hats of to you Mr. Walter Nandalike. You have taken an excelent initiative to solve the problem facing by the NRI people who travel to Mangalore Airport. Wish you all the success in your mission. Long live Daijiworld.com..

    DisAgree [2] Agree [39] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lancy, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Well done Walty. While on the subject, my personal experience is most of these guys are corrupt and demand and take bribes. This is an open secret. A few months back I arrived from Dubai with a 43 inches LG LCD TV. Other than that I dint have much baggage. A customs officer ( a short arrogant guy who speaks Hindi) stopped me and threatned me that this LCD is dutiable. He first took a photocopy of my passport through a porter just to scare me. Subsequently he asked me for the bill. I bought the TV from Carrefour City Centre Dubai who do not issue fake bills and when I produced the bill he said this bill fake and the TV costs much more than what is shown in the bill.

    To avoid problems I thought let me bribe this guys and just held 2000 rupees in my hand. He straight away said yeh kya hei not good enough. He demanded 6000 rupees to clear me from the customs. I knew if I do not pay he will detain me for a long time and haress me so I dint argue. There was another customs officer next to him who was tulu speaking.

    I approached him and negotiated for 3000 rupees and got out quickly. Money was kept inside the passport and was given to this guy in the presence of the the other customs officer. I am sure they are all same and share the booty which is easy money at the end of their duty. This cannot happen without the knowledge and approval of the higher customs autthorities at Mangalore airport. There is no such problem at Bangalore and Mumbai airports when passengers arrive with an LCD. Why this is happening only in Mangalore ? My sotry is quite long but have made it short and sweet.

    DisAgree [6] Agree [64] Reply Report Abuse

  • Koni Prakash Naik, Kundapur, Muscat

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Great job Mr. Walter Nandalike. Hope your efforts will see a satisfactory ending to this whole episode. The question here is why is that only Mangalore Airport customs officials follow the rule and not others.

    Anyways, since some of our politicians have promised to take up the matter with the Center (an opportunity to show their guts), let's wait and watch.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [26] Reply Report Abuse

  • prem roylex, mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    thank you sir for your efforts to give justice to innocent people. appreciate your effort and sincerity in this issue.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [26] Reply Report Abuse

  • lancer, mudarangadi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    If the custom officers are honest, then why they accepted Rs 1000 bribe paid by my brother to allow 7 Ltrs of foreign liquor? and if you want to approach politicians on this issue please contact some petty politicians from Kerala because all politicians in around Mangalore together can't do anything what a MLA from Kerala can do. and also remember this airport was given international status for the benifit of people of northern kerala.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [25] Reply Report Abuse

  • Laina Castelino, Moodubelle / Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Walter, Very well done..appreciated your report which enlightened us with the situation. Truly said 1967 to 2012 is a long way and rules should be amended accordingly..Well Done....Daiji Team....

    DisAgree Agree [24] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lancelot N Tauro, Manglore - Doha Qatar

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    I agree with you Ben,Bahrain due to harrasment by customs officers and frequent cancellations of Manglore bound Flights, some passengers have already changed thier route via Calicut, Banglore , Goa or Bombay.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [22] Reply Report Abuse

  • Mubeen, Mangalore\Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Good Work Mr.Walter.Very well done daiji,Please continue the pressure till the rule get change.we are all with you.Keep it up and all the best.

    DisAgree Agree [22] Reply Report Abuse

  • Esmee, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Good article from walter, we expect from the same.

    DisAgree Agree [17] Reply Report Abuse

  • JS, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thank You Mr. Walter you should have told custom officer that they are lucky they are only abused dog cat etc... and they are not been bashed..or beaten that days are not far if they dont behave..... I hope it wont be like Haryana Maruthi...........

    DisAgree Agree [21] Reply Report Abuse

  • Abubaker Ujire, Ujire/Abu Dhabi.

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Truely, Daiji is doing wonderfull job...we really apreciate your effort...keep it up...God Bless you...

    DisAgree Agree [21] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jaimini P.B., Manipal,Sharjah

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Mr.Walter..CONGRATS..You have become Ravi Belagere(Hi Bangalore) of Twin Districts who fights till justice is done...! KEEP IT UP SIR..

    DisAgree [1] Agree [46] Reply Report Abuse

  • ayan, mangalore/dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    thanks daiji.. & well done mr.walter..

    DisAgree Agree [12] Reply Report Abuse

  • AMAR NATHAL, MANGALORE

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Hats off, Daijiworld! If at all the media like you took up many corruption issues, our country would have improved. No one wants the trouble. All want to criticize. Once the officials realize that they would be held accountable, then things would change. We need to prove that we are educated and well informed.If Mangaloreans don't do it, who would? We should not be known for merry making, but defenders of justice. Jai Ho Mangalore!

    DisAgree Agree [32] Reply Report Abuse

  • Damodar Bhat, Udupi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Please do not blame the Custom officers. They are only carrying out their duty.The laws are made by us...for us.I mean our MP's should be blamed.Most of the time they are not in Parliament but collect every rupee of their perks.

    e.g.: Nalin Kumar Kateel has got very poor attendance in Parliament besides he has never opened his mouth even once.Now, the people of Mangalore have elected him.Ask yourself the question...Why ? Is he worthy ?

    DisAgree [6] Agree [46] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ben-Bahrain, Shirva/Bahrain

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Good effort by Walter.But it looks like a systematic game plan to deprive the international status of the mangalore airport by reducing the passenger flow.If the continuation of this type of harrasment people may change their route to the nearest airports like Bangalore/Mumbai to reach Mangalore via domestic terminal.The dream of getting the international status will remain as a day dream.Less paseengers means less income to the custom officials and no international status.To add the fuel to the fire is Air India Express by reducing or cancelling inbound flights from the Gulf.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [33] Reply Report Abuse

  • Mohan, Udupi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    LAW IS NAILED TO THE CROSS )

    DisAgree [1] Agree [3] Reply Report Abuse

  • Walter Pinto , Doha-Qatar

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Mr. Walter I appreciate your effort and sincerity in this issue. One request with you please Do not Believe the politicians and their promises. You are awesome and keep up your great work for humankind. God Bless you.

    DisAgree Agree [46] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ashalatha rao, manglore/abudhabi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    WELL DONE DAIJI....hope all NRIs will be given justice to travel with regular using golds without any tension.... Social medias can always bring justice to the society..

    DisAgree [1] Agree [33] Reply Report Abuse

  • Agnel D'Silva, Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thanks Mr. Nandalike for all your efforts. If our dearest MPs of twin diits fails to amend this rule in parliament, then we request Mr. Nandalike to contest the next Paliament election and I am sure he will win with huge margin.

    DisAgree Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lawrence Fernandes, Mangalore/ Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Super and fantastic job, Mr. Walter.
    But before you take up this matter to the top level, scrutinize the complaints leveled against Customs and custom officers. All custom officers are not the same type of bribe takers. I am a frequent traveler and till June 2012 I have not been harassed by the custom officers and in fact they were Smiley and polite. The sudden changes after that means there are some loop holes and more evidences are needed for justification. All the best and God bless.

    DisAgree [3] Agree [29] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rakesh shetty, mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012


    I HAVE ONLY ONE HOPE LEFT. ONLY NALEEN KUMARJI & DAIJI TEAM WILL SOLVE THIS MATTER.

    DisAgree [35] Agree [11] Reply Report Abuse

  • Viraj-Oman, Udupi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Daijiworld is fighting for a real good cause. Keep it up. Hats off to Mr.Walter Nandalike and daiji team

    DisAgree Agree [7] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rohan , Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    What is the LAW?

    DisAgree [10] Agree [22] Reply Report Abuse

  • Christopher D'Cunha, M'lore/AUH

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thank you Walter for your brave step towards the cause....This may be the Blessing in disguise....I feel all the NRI's from all the states will benefit if they amend the rules!!!

    DisAgree Agree [48] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jude, Mangalore Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    The ball now is in the court of our MP's. They are the ones who should fight now and bring in a change in the rules. If this rule of RS 20K was passed in 1967, then find out what the cost of gold was then and adjust the same at today's prices. As someone suggested it is better to pass a law on the weight of gold allowed rather than a fixed amount as gold prices keep changing everyday.

    DisAgree Agree [41] Reply Report Abuse

  • Peter Sequeira, Udupi/kuwait

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    First of all thanks to Daiijiworld uprising this issue and appreciate effort of Mr. Walter. Now all the Gulf Organizations must take interest to write the Prime Minister and the finance ministries to make an amendment in the 1967 Law. The entire traveler must switch on their mobile camera as well as recording as a proof if any incident happens with them. It is duty of our Two Costal MP Mr. Nalin Kumar Kateel & Mr. J. P. Hegde should take this issue seriously, not only give comments ( Raath Gahyi tho Baath Gahyi).

    DisAgree Agree [31] Reply Report Abuse

  • vikas, dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Most of the people in india think that people who comes from abroard are well off, but they dont know the other side of the coin. Those who visited gulf only realize the fact, that people they work here hard with insecured feelings. when they go back to their native they hide their their sorrows in front of their relatives, just because not to hurt them during their short holiday. I humbly request all concern authorities not to play with sentiments of NRI's who contribute major role in developments of our country by going through(most of them) hardships through out their stay.

    DisAgree Agree [47] Reply Report Abuse

  • Arun Noronha, Agrar/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Daiji team...hats off to you. You are really concerned about all. Walter and your team..God bless you..You are truly our "Daiji". Well done and keep it up..

    DisAgree Agree [38] Reply Report Abuse

  • Naveen D'souza, Valencia-Kuwait

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    LONG LIVE DAIJI.VERY WELL DONE MR EDITOR.THANKS TO WORKING FOR MANGALOREANS.

    DisAgree Agree [32] Reply Report Abuse

  • OZY, DUBAI

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    THANX WALTER FOR SHARING YR PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.
    THIS MAY BE PTIONAL CASE OR DAILY PERFORMANCE FM CUSTOMS, BUT FOR THE PASSENGERS IT IS STILL A NIGHTMARE BCOZ AS U KNOW WHAT IS SITUATIONS IN GULF, WORKING FAMILIES OR OTHER INDIAN CITIZENS.
    AFTER ALL EACH ONE LEFT THIER BELOVED ONES AND TRAVELLED TO THESE COUNTIRES TO EARN THIER DAILY BREAD, SUDDENLY IF THESE NEWS ARISING THEN IT WILL HURT EVERYONE, BUT REALITY IT IS NOT THE SAME. SINCE IT IS BEEN DISPLAYED IN DAIJI, MOST OF THE CITIZENS THEY GOT SOME KIND OF FEAR THINKING THAT THE CUSTOMS WILL TAKE THIER BELONGINGS.EACH ONE IS TRAVELLING TO THESE DESTINATIONS TO UPLIFT THIER FAMLIES SPECIALLY THE THE YOUNG BACHELORS, THEY ALWAYS HV SPECIAL RESPECTS FOR THIER MOTHER & SISTERS BACK HOME AND EVERY ONE INTENTION IS THAT TO GET SMALL GIFT FOR THEM. SO, ALL THOSE DREAMS HAVE BEEN SHATTERED AND DESTROYED BY THIS NEW LAW.WHEN I CAME ACROSS ONE KNOWN PERSON WHO TRAVELLING TO M'LORE FOR HIS SISTER'S WEDDING AND HE SAID I HV TAKEN AN SMALL NECKLACE, HOW TO CARRY, I HAD NO ANSWER FOR HIS REQUEST SINCE IT IS HIS HARD EARNED MONEY AND MANGAED TO BUY THIS ITEM AND IF HE LOOSE OR IF IT IS TAKEN BY CUSTOMS OFFICIERS THEN?
    SO, OUR HUMBLE REQUEST TO OUR AUTHORITIES THAT NOT TO HUMILIATE ANY ONE FOR ORNAMENTS PERPOSE IF ANY OTHER ILLEGAL PLZ ACT AS PER THE LAW.
    THANKING YOU IN ADVANCE.

    DisAgree [10] Agree [51] Reply Report Abuse

  • Louis, Kuwait

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    How much customs you paid? Hope you were not carrying Gold, Cigerettes n whisky. Else they would have had a sweet revenge!! It's hard to face them in person, when we write against them. Appreciate good work, matter has to be solved by central govt. Hope JPH will do something sure.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • Alan, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thank Very Much Mr.Walter.. At least we have someone backing us with his support by all means... :)

    DisAgree [1] Agree [40] Reply Report Abuse

  • vinay, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thanks daiji for your effort. Only you and we can make changes in the society. We should not expect anything from the politicians. They are good for nothing. By reading this article, now i feel comfortable to land in Mangalore Airport. Thanks to everyone including our custom officers for thier understanding.... But again, a single spoiled mango will spoil all other mangoes in a basket.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [35] Reply Report Abuse

  • Amin Bhoja, Patte / Riyadh

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Daiji a walking experience, a benefit to the mass,a story of customs and it's bitter experience in Mangalore Airport.Keep it up your good works always please.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [46] Reply Report Abuse

  • prakash, mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Daiji,

    Thank you very much for this initiative,We must always abide by the law, if there is a custom duty to be paid than it has to be paid with a valid receipt, but if there is not, then people should not be harrased unnecessarily on the pretext of custom duty. NRI's richly contribute to the India's economy with the remittences while working their sweat out abroad. The general notion is that all NRI's are rich which is not, some poor laborers work hard and what they earn has to be given in the customs duty, this is a sad thing.All come home with lots of memories to see their loved ones, first thing we have to face is customs & immigration officers. 90% of us have a bad opinion (i dont even get a reply or a smile if i wish them,a smile is not against the rule?), or a fear of being harrased.I hope this will change. Hope Govt takes due steps to relax the custom duty conditions on NRI's
    At least by considering their value added contribution on Indian economy.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [42] Reply Report Abuse

  • Pinto, Manglaore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    The rule for carrying gold should be based on weight rather than amount for eg- jewellery-50 Gms or 24K gold- 50 Gms. This will automatically take care of inflation. Agree with customs officer, people knowingly carry gold or liquor more than permissible limit.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [40] Reply Report Abuse

  • H. William, Padukone /Udupi/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Mr. Walter, Thank you for good advise, truly you need to have the names of the Officer to process the complain. Keep Up the good work "God Bless you"

    DisAgree [1] Agree [34] Reply Report Abuse

  • Roshith, Padubidri/Muscat

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Mr. Walter good article and we feel little bit relaxed after reading this article because we are also planning to visit India next month and daily thinking about customs issue. Thank you for your effort and hope old law will amend as soon as possible. Well done Daiji. Keep it up.

    DisAgree Agree [30] Reply Report Abuse

  • Gilbert Mascarenhas, Mangalore/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    In 1967 gold rate wase Rs. 34/- per grams and now it is approx 2000/- per gram. as per 1967 rules women can wear arond 588 grams of gold and now only 10 grams. why the government of India passing the bill as per the letest rate of gold?

    DisAgree [1] Agree [39] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ashok, Udupi/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    As I commented earlier Custom officer taking adventage of old Law. They are doing their job. Our job is to pressurize looting & sleeping Central Govt to change the law with the help of media like Daiji World.

    DisAgree [3] Agree [31] Reply Report Abuse

  • Alwyn, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Such a smart, balanced & sincere reporting. definitely your efforts will be fruitful. God bless daijiworld team.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [36] Reply Report Abuse

  • Bhaskar, Udupi/Qatar

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Well done Mr. Walter. Very good Job. Keep going.....

    DisAgree [1] Agree [41] Reply Report Abuse

  • vincy, bangkok

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Why not the customs authority approaches the Supreme Court and asks them to amend the rule book which they cannot implement. It is clear that the customs are working opposite to the rule book. They are posted at a port to implement and collect customs duty and fill the treasury. The treasury handlers should work with responsibility. And they are not doing it. Not a single airport in India has a spacious customs approach where people can have access to and pay duty as per rule booklet the authorities provide a proper infrastructure and staff force to handle every passenger who wants to import dutiable items and pay duty at airport as per rule book. The customs officers and the whole department should resigns because they are asked to work and implements laws that are out dated and not practical.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [34] Reply Report Abuse

  • Gilbert Mascarenhas, Mangalore/Dubai

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Thanks walty for doing this for NRE people and less earning people in gulf countrys.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [32] Reply Report Abuse

  • jagdish, Mumbai, UAE

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Few days from now they will act very politely, after that again they will start as usual. some time you feel they are not custom officers, they are counter salesman, because they have price list of all items. offcourse which will be very high, You know why... Once upon a time Mumbai Air port custom officers were posing same attitude, If you see now they are far better.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [44] Reply Report Abuse

  • Hanif, Shirva-Sharjah

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Daiji, Thanks a lot for your efforts, I hope now I can get out of Mangalore Airport without any Tension, I was disturbed with the officers behavior I wanted to complaint but was not getting any links where i can do this, I remember I complaint this issue to Daiji through comments once before this news get printed. I feel like daiji responded to my comment, This is what one reader expects from a news media to resolve our problems not only publishing it. Heartly thanks for u guys.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [49] Reply Report Abuse

  • Kshama Shetty, Abu Dhabi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Very genuine article. A must read. But surely there is scope for improvement among customs officials in Mangalore

    DisAgree [2] Agree [53] Reply Report Abuse

  • Alwyn, Mangalore - USA

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Dear Mr. Walter I appreciate your effort and sincerity in this issue. One request with you please DO NOT BELIVE the  politicians and their promises. You are awesome and keep up your great work for humankind. God Bless you.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [61] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jennifer D'Cunha, Dubai / Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    I do agree with Walter's articles. SOmetimes, for the wrong attitude of one or two officers, entire customs get bad name. But this is the rule of the world!

    DisAgree [2] Agree [80] Reply Report Abuse

  • C Sharath, Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Good article Walter. Like I mentioned before, the need of the hour is change or renewed rules in the so called 5 decade old rule book. according to the allowance of then today women can carry gold worth of 8 lakhs if you see todays rate. Our request to finance ministry is First change the rule book considering 2012 and the inflation sicne 1967 and then set the rules and yeas of course all need to adhere to this.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [95] Reply Report Abuse

  • S. M. Nawaz Kukkikatte, Udupi

    Sun, Jul 22 2012

    Very well done Mr. Walter Nandalike and his daiji team. Good Social Media Service from your team. Keep it up..

    DisAgree [2] Agree [132] Reply Report Abuse


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