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South African cricketer and World XI squad member Imran Tahir ─ who is due to play the Independence Cup series in Lahore this month ─ accused the Pakistani consulate in Birmingham of "humiliating" him and his family when they attempted to apply for a visa to travel here.
"Me and my family were humiliated and expelled from the Pak High Commission earlier today when I went to get a visa to play the World XI in Pakistan," he tweeted on Tuesday.
Tahir, a cricketer of Pakistani origin, said he had visited the consulate to obtain Pakistani visas for himself and his family members but had to endure a "traumatic" five-hour wait after which he was "expelled by the staff explaining that the office hours are over and they are closing the consulate".
"It was only after the intervention of [Pakistan] High Commissioner Ibn-e-Abbas who instructed the staff that we were issued visas," he said. "It's an irony that being Pakistani origin South African cricketer and intending to play in World XI [I] was treated so miserably."
The Pakistan High Commission in London clarified that Tahir was assisted by consulate staff and the issue had occurred because the cricketer and his family members held South African passports which required "additional processes".
The high commission also added that "the time taken in issuing visas was due to non-filling out of four applications, non-availability of supporting documents and additional processing required in respect of visas for holders of a third country".
"The visa applications are handled by Gerry’s but, as a special case, his applications were directly accepted by the consulate," the statement added. "It may be noted that the normal visa processing time is five working days."
"When the high commissioner came to know about the matter, he immediately intervened and gave necessary approval after which the visas were issued the same day," the statement said, adding that he also spoke to Tahir over the telephone.
Responding to Tahir's complaint, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal said action would be taken against those responsible.
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On DawnNews
Comments (215) Closed
Sep 06, 2017 12:47am
Imran should realize it's what all Pakistanis go through nothing exceptional we don't call it humiliation it's called how Pakistanis work !
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Sep 06, 2017 12:47am
Ridiculous, sack them all.
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Sep 06, 2017 12:50am
What a shame!
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Sep 06, 2017 12:57am
Imagine how the consulate will be treating a common man.
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Sep 06, 2017 12:58am
Do our Pakistani cricketers get any privileges when they apply for the South African visa or UK visa from abroad (such as expedited services)?
Would Imran receive the same privileges of direct submission for the Indian visa if he goes for the IPL or is he just expecting more from the Pakistani embassy?
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Sep 06, 2017 12:59am
ahsan iqbal sahib. when are you going to say sorry the the thousands of people who get humiliated for months on in pakistani passport offices?
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Sep 06, 2017 12:59am
Imran you not the only one most of Pakistani with foreign passports have to suffer and actually it's worse in Glasgow.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:00am
I have been humiliated at Los Angeles Consulate many times but I didn't make into news. We Pakistani born living abroad are victims of these consulates and Embassies around the world all the time. This should be a time when government should take steps and fix this issue.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:00am
Looks like Imran Tahir is trying to be famous. I fel sorry for pakistan when an Ex-pakistani national is condeming its country of birth. The process takes time, if you are famous doesnt mean, you start shouting. Looks like Blaming Pakistan for everything is also not right.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:05am
Perhaps, we will never change ourselves!
This happens to our embassies in foreign countries. They keep their low-efficiency bar while working in the West, and the people overseas try to compare their service with the more efficient standards of the West and react!
Tahir, you were lucky!
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Sep 06, 2017 01:06am
Let me tell you about Imran Tahir, he is very arrogant individual. I have nothing against him but I could certainly tell you that he would not have had all the requirements met for the visa application. I know Birmingham & London consulate are terrible but he would not have waited there for 5 hours if he had completed application. I have experienced both consulates and waited few hours for passports & visas as a common citizen.
Imran Tahir would have turned up with incomplete application & expected to be treated as VIP and get visa on incomplete documents. If this was any other country's consulate he would have been very careful.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:09am
I Know Ibn-e-Abbas when he was in Los Angeles. He is Gem of a man. I am glad he took care of Imran Tahir's Visa approval. Imran Tahir is a Prodigy of Pakistan and South Africa and we are proud of him.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:09am
If it takes 5 working days to issue the visa.why was he issued the visa.why are rules broken for the elite.why cant we treat every one equally.its time that person is questioned who ordered to issue visa immediately.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:11am
No worries, they humiliate everyone. Unless you know someone who works there, then no problem. They have the same mentality as in Pakistan. If they can hinder you they will oblige. Help...no chance be prepared to visit more than once to get any result.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:11am
What is a point of Tweeting when High Commissioner of the same consulate helped Mr. Cricketer?
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Sep 06, 2017 01:13am
However when Indian embassy cites the same reasons for Pakistani hockey team while denying visas, keyboard warriors here erupt in mass hysteria. Ironic!
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Sep 06, 2017 01:15am
Sorry but visas do not take 5 days!!! If you hand in your application to gerrys before 11am you can have your visa by 4pm that same day.Providing everything is in order...
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Sep 06, 2017 01:17am
He is lucky that he got the visa the same day. He should have applied in time, and followed the normal procedure.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:17am
Mr. Interior Minister, Consulate staff followed the rules explained by the High Commissioner. Change the rules if you can. Establish INSTITUTIONS, and stop acting like a DICTATOR.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:18am
Pakistanis are their own enemies. Slave national mentality with green passports can't work for their own people.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:19am
What a shame, when we will growup
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Sep 06, 2017 01:24am
Why is the minister apologizing to Tahir. Why does he want a special treatment when all others have to wait for 5 days. No one else is allowed to fill their applications at the spot but he was allowed to do so. These people would always follow the rules when applying for a visa to UK or Australia and would not complain even if they have to follow procedures just as a common man does but when it comes to Pakistan, they think they own everything.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:25am
You are a cricketer of Pakistan Origin, therefore, it is a fair deal. You have been duly treated. No Surprise.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:27am
For future I would suggest to make NICOP which allows Pakistani having other nationality get visa free entry. This is cheaper and one time process gives such people entry for 10 years to Pakistan.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:29am
Just because IT now holds SA passport he should not think himself above Pakistan legal and procedural requirements. Why was he given preference by Pakistan ambassador
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Sep 06, 2017 01:30am
Every Pakistani endures this, whys he special, for being ex Pakistani? :)
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Sep 06, 2017 01:34am
It is difficult to fault some one for this incident. However, irrespective of who is
at fault the staff should have been a little polite.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:35am
What is wrong with these Pakistani visa officials ? Just why can't they treat people like Human beings and respect instead of suspicious characters.Imran Tahir may play for South Africa but he is a neutral character and a sportsman who just wants to fulfil his ambition and dream get on with people.
Good luck Imran just look forward to playing cricket.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:37am
why is this news, we common people go through this every government office we visit.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:40am
Having seen Birmingham consulate staff myself I can endorse how demeaning their attitudes are to fellow Pakistanis. We can't make others to respect our countrymen unless we start respecting them ourselves.
If you ever have to see third world in Birmingham city centre then visit Pakistani consulate. It's outrageous that I saw 2 incidents of harsh shouting in a span of 2 hours of ordeal of my passport renewal.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:45am
"Responding to Tahir's complaint, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal said action would be taken against those responsible." Ahsan Iqbal sahib, how can you take action on the word of one individual without investigating the incident fully. Also, if this was a complaint from an ordinary British citizen of Pakistani origin, would you still react similarly?
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Sep 06, 2017 01:45am
It appears that the Consulate people acted correctly and lawfully. They must have been impolite because it is our trademark to be impolite.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:50am
Take the step immediately
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Sep 06, 2017 02:00am
Imran should not be complaining. Any Pakistani wishing to go to South Africa has to endure the same treatment. Five working days for visa issuance and lots of documents, including confirmed Hotel booking plus airline tickets.
He vacated Pakistan citizenship on his accord and should follow rules and procedures , which are reciprocal in nature.
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Sep 06, 2017 02:06am
Imran Tahir has always had issues with Pakistan; he opted to play county cricket instead of playing Pakistan domestic matches while he was on the verge of playing for Pakistan. He then preferred South Africa. Still he is very respectable Pakistani but plz start respecting Pakistan too.
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Sep 06, 2017 02:07am
This happens everyday at consulates all over the world. Everyone is not Imran Tahir who is coming to ply with the World-xi. The biggest issue is appointment not done on merit. Sifarish rishtadar gives Pakistan a bad name.
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Sep 06, 2017 02:10am
Well, I don't agree with Imran Tahir and he should have applied with relevant documents. This is embassy rule and everyone must adhere to rules and regulations.
Imran
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Sep 06, 2017 02:13am
Its very unfortunate its happening to most of us abroad living here in our own embassy, where the staff of the embassy always show disrespect and authoritative manner and giving a lot of problems in renew passport and ID cards, just think why we born in this country where the government departments officials full of authoritative disrespectful maniacs with lack of knowledge courtesy and humanity
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Sep 06, 2017 02:22am
I am an expatriate living in USA and over last 40 years, several times, I had to go to Pakistan Consulates in New York, Los Angeles and in Chicago, mostly to apply for visas for myself and family. I have always found them to be very courteous and helpful. Of course, whatever requirements are there to obtain visas had to be completed.
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Sep 06, 2017 02:26am
very unfortunate event those who are responsible for this must be punished severly so that an example is set and it never happens again.
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Sep 06, 2017 02:38am
He has to follow the visa application rules. Just like we all do.
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Sep 06, 2017 02:42am
Humiliation is unfortunate but don't worry too much about this issue. You should be more worried particularly if visiting with family to return safely.
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Sep 06, 2017 02:53am
There is obviously lack of communication between the High Commissioner and his Visa Officer.
Since the World X1 team members were given Blanket Authorization for visas, the visa officer should have had a complete list of those authorized for visas + their Nationality.
This did not happen. But then again our High Commissions are not known for their efficiency.
The visa officer should have used his initiative and checked with his superiors, since this is considered a High Profile team visit.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:01am
I am sure when pakistani players travel to other countries they have to follow the rules and they dont start demanding preferential treatment from the respective ambassadors. Our minister is sending a very wrong message by holding the staff responsible for following the rules.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:04am
How were you made to wait? Out on the road under the sun? How were you 'expelled'? Were you or your family members manhandled or simply asked to come the following day? All sounds like a tantrum to me!
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Sep 06, 2017 03:12am
Whats new here. Embassy staff humiliate everyone who disturbs their nap time at work.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:16am
As a British pakistani living in Birmingham and having suffered at the hands of pakistani embassy staff in the past I will make the following points;
1. The processes have improved dramatically in the past couple of years and the service provided by both Gerrys and the consulate staff have improved
2. Imran Tahir or any other celebrity are not above the law and should follow the procedure just like everyone else does. If your own paperwork is not in order then why take out your frustration on staff members who are simply doing their job. Imran only felt humiliated due to his celebrity status not getting him any favours.
In the end he was given the visas against normal protocol due to a possible recommendation by some powerful personality. Instead of appreciating this he then goes on twitter to malign the consulate staff. This behaviour is ungrateful and not welcome by pakistanis.
3.Mr Aqsan Iqbal. Instead of pointing fingers at your own people try to comment against protocol culture
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Sep 06, 2017 03:26am
Typical case of Pakistani origin when becomes dual nationals they think Pakistan owe them something and being cricketer he must have expected VIP treatment . Why don't just fill the forms rather then tweeting. His emotional behavior speaks for himself on the field
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Sep 06, 2017 03:28am
So basically Mr.Imran Tahir showed up with an incomplete paperwork: no filled application forms and missing supporting documents and expected to be granted special treatment and full attention of the consulate to do his work for him. If you truly think so high of yourself to merit full attention of an embassy, why not hire a manager who does these things for you or I sense a cheapskate ?
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Sep 06, 2017 03:30am
Its so hard to say that our supports at the time of need serve us miserably. Can u imagine that they donot have pen to sign the papers and response comes is that our budget is very tight.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:33am
Unfortunately.visa process is a complex and cumbersome everywhere in.the world Pakistany consulate of course is not an.exception..
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Sep 06, 2017 03:36am
Given how our foreign office works, I wouldn't doubt imran tahir. I live in Texas and trust me our Pak consulate in Houston is a joke.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:36am
One can only imagine how ordinary citizens would be treated if Celebrities are being humiliated already.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:41am
Don't be so snobbish now that you can avoid the due process. Follow the process, why not fill the forms correctly in first place? Why you are making an issue out of nothing? It would've been appropriate to raise it with high commissioner instead of complaining like a spoilt child to the world.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:42am
Shameful behavior, totally unnecessary.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:44am
This is a TYPICAL case of this fellow thinking he is 'above the law' and rules don't apply to him. It is a mistake on the part of the high commissioner to let the complaining expedite the process. And mr iqbal threatening action against the staff is unfortunate. They were just doing their jobs according to established. I will 'bet' that this non-cricketer would have said something like "don't you know who I AM".
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Sep 06, 2017 03:45am
He only waited 5 hours.
Most people wait longer.
The High Commissions are poorly organised and a sad reflection on the country.
Just like their airports and other government offices.
Totally lack professionalism and customer care skills.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:47am
Attitude and performance of our foreign missions abroad are no secret but before taking any action, as mentioned by Ahsan Iqbal, it would augur well if Imran Tahir's application and his visit to the Consulate is investigated.
Foremost, if Gerry's is supposed to handle all visa applications why would Imran go directly to the consulate? Secondly, if visa processing times are 5 working days why would Imran expect a more faster service? Being an international sports star does not give anyone the license to expect a more preferential treatment.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:59am
This is nothing new, many people face this when going to the consulate in Birmingham to obtain visas, the staff are rude and have no manners and nor do they explain clearly what documents are needed, they send you away when u get to the counter and then request additional documents, shambles!!
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Sep 06, 2017 04:00am
Bad on Imran Tahir's part. Pakistan embassy has to follow process just like any other Country.
Imran probably thought he's a VIP and will get a favor. Good job Embassy.
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Sep 06, 2017 04:09am
Pakistani embassies and consulates all over the world treat everyone exactly the same, i.e., with contempt....however, extra care is taken to ensure that everyone who looks like a Pakistani is treated with additional disdain:(...and then we wonder why no one visits Pakistan...
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Sep 06, 2017 04:19am
So what regularly Pakistani gets humiliated at foreign embassies and airports. No one write an article about that.
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Sep 06, 2017 04:34am
What a shame? He is still Pakistani, and entitled to respect not only as a Pakistani but a great cricketer. 5 hours is too long a time for any filing of application. This kind of a conduct dampens our hope for world cricket in Lahore. Totally unacceptable behavior. In this computerized age, 5 hours is way too much.
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Sep 06, 2017 04:36am
What business does this Ahsan Iqbal have to do while his portfolio is interior ministry? But, then it is quite possible that he does not know the difference between the two portfolios.
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Sep 06, 2017 04:43am
so saddd
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Sep 06, 2017 04:46am
The consulate has to follow rules just like for everybody else. Imran Tahir shouldn't think of himself as superior just because he holds a South African passport. We Pakistanis have to wait weeks to get a S,African visa.
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Sep 06, 2017 04:56am
If his paper work is not complete then he should not be given any preferential treatment....he has chosen to play for SA and still thinks he has a right to criticise Pakistan...he needs to show more respect towards Pakistan or else we do not want him here.
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Sep 06, 2017 04:59am
We do not appreciate your criticism of Pakistan and your expectation to be given special treatment....
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Sep 06, 2017 05:02am
Incompetency and corruption at the highest level breeds the same at lower levels.
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Sep 06, 2017 05:05am
According to consulate's side of the story, Imran should have followed the procedures, he must be thankful that he was provided with visa the same day, when there was much more processing required.
I know if you go and apply visa for any country and there are missing documents they return you back straight away, giving priority to people who are following the rules and procedures. Instead of complaining he should be thankful that he got the visa
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Sep 06, 2017 05:24am
It is unfortunate that consulate staff is lacking in diplomacy
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Sep 06, 2017 05:42am
This feedback and news is very disappointing. Pakistan consulate should have clear written policy and procedures for application of Pakistan visas for foreign passport holders. Not sure why Imran Tahir did not apply for visa via their sponsor which would be rioted through PCB. We are trying to promote cricket in Pakistan for foreigners and our consulate is causing unecessary challenges. Yes an investigation should be performed immediately and the one at fault penalized.
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Sep 06, 2017 05:59am
It's the same in Dubai. The higher ups were corrupt and incompetent. At no other time do you regret youR nationality more than when you are forced to visit the consulate
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Sep 06, 2017 06:01am
Hope more details are disclosed on the actual events. Two facts highlighted in the news are 1) Imran Tahir applied with his whole family and not for himself only and 2) Incomplete documents. This implies that his application is not for Cricket Only. Hopefully the Consulate Staff will not be made victims just because of the Applicant. Few years ago, Chief Minister of Punjab had suspended the Doctor after the death of Mrs. Wasim Akram. It was later investigated that the Doctor was not at fault. And then we blame our Politicians for VIP Culture
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Sep 06, 2017 06:02am
I think under Sushma Swaraj, the Indian consular staff behavior towards visa seekers improved a lot.
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Sep 06, 2017 06:05am
Oh while living in South Africa he has forgotten the Pakistani ways. You don't expect fair treatment from a public office if you don't know anyone there personally.
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Sep 06, 2017 06:06am
Justice is to assess facts and listen point of view of both the parties involved. Should not build opinions on, what someone feels or believes. In addition, one especially the celebrities must be mindful of sharing things of sensitive nature on the social media. Obeserve the language used 'humiliated and expelled' - that is a wow factor - needs to be elaborated. The version of the consulate seems to have more weight in it and it makes sense too.
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Sep 06, 2017 06:11am
With due respect to Mr. Tahir and his family, did he just show up at the counsellet without proper paperwork and demanded he be served? Will he behave the same way at, for example, an Australian counsellet? I have seen similar behavior at Pakistani banks, counsellets, PIA, etc. Some how expats think that some how they are above Pakistani laws.
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Sep 06, 2017 06:13am
It is unfortunate that cricket is returning to Pakistan after such a long time, but there are funny people in the bureaucracy who, by their red tapism mindset, are hell bent on sabotaging this...
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Sep 06, 2017 06:23am
So actually he expected a VIP protocol which was not offered to him.
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Sep 06, 2017 06:39am
Follow the due process mate, even if its your country of origin. Would you have walked in without proper document anywhere else?
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Sep 06, 2017 06:45am
My mother in law who is German recently faced much worse circumstances when she applied for visa in Pakistan Consulate, Frankfurt. The staff is extremely careless. They do not receive phone calls and if they do they say they will call back, but they dont. They are mostly uneducated (probably workers of the ruling party), can neither speak English nor German. Many people have registered complaints against them on their Facebook account (one person's passport was lost in the consulate) but the Ambassador is unmoved.
I am embarrassed to be a Pakistani.
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Sep 06, 2017 06:49am
Pakistani consulates in general misbehave everywhere. I have personally witnessed their rude behavior in Canada. This has something to do with their upbringing and personality shortcomings.
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Sep 06, 2017 06:52am
I met Imran and his family in Birmingham during the ICC champions trophy. I cannot recall meeting a nicer cricketer. He and his wife were such down-to-earth people. If they felt humiliated, I am inclined to believe and feel sorry for them.
I am Indian and a true fan. Imran...stay strong and enjoy your cricket! It's a pleasure to see your skill and passion on the ground.
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Sep 06, 2017 06:55am
Why is this even a news? This humiliation happen to Pakistanis everyday in most of the government offices and he is not even a Pakistani anymore. If you are selfish enough to give up your Pakistani citizenship, you deserve additional processing.
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Sep 06, 2017 07:02am
Doesn't sound like going to South Africa has improved Tahir's English though ! Me and my family were humiliated and expelled. My guess is more that he expected some VIP treatment and I am more upset that the staff there gave him the visa after he complained. If he were some person at a European visa office or even South African office, he would wait his turn and if the day was over, he would be asked to come back the next day. Pakistani officials instead accommodated this loud mouth.
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Sep 06, 2017 07:05am
You may be an international cricketing star and kudos to you for that. But international travel and visa policies/procedures do not change purely because you play international cricket. Ask SRK of india who's had to deal with the americans a fair number of times.
Maybe should just have got your usual PR company to deal with the consulate, save yourself the time and the consulate with a rowdy vip?
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Sep 06, 2017 07:05am
What a shame
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Sep 06, 2017 07:08am
We should go out of our way to allow vistors to our Country. The Pak consulates. Need to respect visitors and citizens
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Sep 06, 2017 07:10am
I don't think that any action to be taken who are all responsible. If you go to western country no one treated specially. If the forms are not filled, no supporting documents available , they won't hesitate to send back. If the process takes 5 days it is 5 days. It's subcontinent mentality , expecting to be treated specially for 'special' people.
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Sep 06, 2017 07:12am
Imran Tahir is not alone. Go to any consulate in the world and the harassment and rude behavior is mind boggling. They have a serious power trip.
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Sep 06, 2017 07:13am
Imran my advice to you is not to worry over this. You are playing for South Africa where you are valued. Think about it, if you had remained in Pakistan would you have played at the level you are playing now.
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Sep 06, 2017 07:21am
have you ever came across the attitude of Pak Consulate staff in Canberra and Sydney? what happened to Tahir is not a one off case. Consulate staff are poorly trained, especially when it comes to show some courtesy, hell they don't even greet you properly on the phone, let alone other things.
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Sep 06, 2017 07:28am
Normal processing time is 5 days... how much time was taken for issuance of visa in this case, less than a day.... and still complaint...
Very sorry Imran Tahir at your attitude...
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Sep 06, 2017 07:37am
Why action should be taken against those resp if they were rightly doing their job? I emphasize if but it seems to be a case of nepotism as in if you are a somebody (VIP) rules don't apply and you are above the rules but if you are a nobody (consulate worker) then you are reprimanded for following the rules.
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Sep 06, 2017 07:45am
Some members of the staff will become the fall guys. This happens frequently in Pak consulates abroad. Now the minister will valiantly take action but what about accountability At the proper level.
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Sep 06, 2017 07:47am
I have noticed emigrant Indians or non-resident Indians sometimes have an 'I-am-entitled-to-special-treatment' attitude. I won't be surprised if this is a larger south Asian behaviour. We south Asians also have a VIP culture where these VIPs expect services without providing necessary documentation. I would not blame the pak embassy staff.
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Sep 06, 2017 08:05am
This is a typical way of our consulates working abroad. I live in Houston and consulate acts similar to the Consulate in Birmingham (UK). Most of the staff at Consulate in Houston are not courteous and have no concept of customer service. Some of them are arrogant. Consulate officials give you a time to pick up the visa but when you go there, the waiting time can take one hour to five hours. If you argue about the delay, it causes further delay.
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Sep 06, 2017 08:17am
Why our interior ministry is saying "sorry" to a cricketer on a Twitter post without even listening to the other side of the story?
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Sep 06, 2017 08:25am
If Imran Tahir (IT) believes that he knows about Pakistan as he has lived in Pakistan for most of his life (95%) of his life, so he can do whatever he can, as Pakistan is dying to have international cricket. It is a shameful thought on the part of IT. He should have submitted the completed visa application. Just imagine, a Pakistani cricketer has applied for South African visa (IT adopted country) with incomplete application, his/her visa application would be returned. IT should not make mokery of himself by thinking that he is above law and should have issued visa on incomplete application just because he is part of World XI.
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Sep 06, 2017 08:35am
Any way I go to newyork embassy for kids Visa. Never have any issues. I have seen people coming for visa with only passport, without any supporting documents.
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Sep 06, 2017 08:36am
it was you who was humileated during the processing of your visa as due protocol or you are humilating the the country of your origin by giving remarks like thie although you got your visa.
this unfortunate attitude we only expect from pakistani even if lived in forign country for long time.
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Sep 06, 2017 08:38am
Shameful attitude. Yet we expect foreign players will come. Pathetic.
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Sep 06, 2017 08:39am
I did not expect this for world class player
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Sep 06, 2017 08:42am
All embassies have rules and regulations regarding visa applications and each case takes a certain amount of to process. They need supporting and other evidentiary documents. Embassy staff must not be penalised to placate some cricketer who thinks a bit too much of himself and throw a tantrum over it online. Such VIP culture must not be encouraged. At least the interior minister need not bend over backwards to please someone and should not side openly with this self entitled cricketer and demoralise the embassy staff.
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Sep 06, 2017 08:50am
Getting a Pakistani visa is some times more difficult than getting a US visa ! Besides, Pakistani government employees are least aware or care about how to deal with the public. Mistreatment at government offices is a norm in Pakistan.
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Sep 06, 2017 08:51am
Justice is to assess facts and listen point of view of both the parties involved. Should not build opinions on, what someone feels or believes. In addition, one especially the celebrities must be mindful of sharing things of sensitive nature on the social media. Obeserve the language used 'humiliated and expelled' - that is a wow factor - needs to be elaborated. The version of the consulate seems to have more weight in it and it makes sense too.
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Sep 06, 2017 08:53am
All the people in the consulate from head to bottom should be sacked. No exemption
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Sep 06, 2017 08:58am
I didn't know it's required visa to visit 3rd world country
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Sep 06, 2017 09:05am
How about carrying NICOP. How can you get a visa without filling an application and supporting documents?
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Sep 06, 2017 09:05am
I am sure he must be trying to be over smart. His process and documentation was no where close to the required formalities. No embassy does the exception the way Pakistan embassy does in this case. Though we appreciate and thankful for your visit to Pakistan but visa formalities have to be done as per the protocols. That is what I believe.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:06am
He looks like an excitable boy.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:09am
The visa processing takes 5 working days and he got visa in 5 hours. Imran's typical Pakistani mentality even he got SA passport, that he need visa without documents and without not filling four visa application. I think visa consular officer at High Commissioner were right that they were properly checking all the documents and process application accordingly. I think visa officer should reject his visa application for not submitting all proper documents. High commissioner of Pakistan or interior minister should not intervened the visa process. He should have advise Imran to submit proper documentation in order to get Pakistani visa.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:11am
@Little Heart ??? Is short circuiting a normal five working day process to a single day by the Consulate staff a shame? Why did he not apply in time. It takes more than a week for any one to get a visa to South Africa from Pakistan.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:15am
Getting a Visa from a third country usually takes around 5 business days. He wanted to get it immediately for his family members.
Typical Pakistani mentality (and self-privileged thinking) doesn't change even if you got South African nationality.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:20am
......... dear minster
What action needs to be taken if required documents are not submitted ?
If he is a international player doesn't mean he doesn't need to provide the right papers
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Sep 06, 2017 09:20am
Not surprising, this what our most of the consulates do :(
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Sep 06, 2017 09:29am
This happens to every Pakistani who visits any Pakistani embassy. I believe they must have thought he is a Pakistani.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:34am
We also face same issues when we as Pakistani apply for RSA visa,atleast now you can have idea of our feelings off humiliation.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:34am
Sir
Why Imran Tahir was given special treatment when he did not complete the application procedures and then was given visa the same day when the visa processing time is 5 days. And instead of being grateful to high commissioner he accuses the embassy staff of giving him hard time.
Normally overseas Pakistan have special identity card that exempt them from applying for visa and Imran Tahir did not have that too???
Thanks
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Sep 06, 2017 09:37am
Go through the process who care you are famous cricketer. Other players have no problem well done staff asking him to follow the rule.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:39am
Very unfortunate.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:41am
Hope there was more to the story than quoted because
Sorry but this seems to be a case of using his position and contacts to get the job done where he did not have the right docs or incomplete application. Would have been any other Pakistani he would have been sent home like any visa office would do why special treament for him?
Would have been UK embassy/visa office his application would have been either refused or additional docs requested. Normal procedure would have been followed.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:42am
@Little Heart
There is no shame in any of this.
While I may not have all facts, but from what I have just read: the situation was presumably caused by Imran Tahir applying without reading, understanding, or following the application process instructions. And amazingly, still walked out with visas for his entire family at the end of the day, because the Pakistan High-Commissioner intervened to approve number of exceptions including: a) accepting Imran Tahir's application directly instead of thru Gerry's; b) processing it the same day instead of the required 5 days; and c) doing it despite missing documents.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:46am
Why am i not surprised ????
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Sep 06, 2017 09:51am
It is true that our embassies are very lethargic. But if Mr Tahir's documents were not up to mark why he was entertained. While Pakistani living abroad specially in middle East are humiliated daily.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:59am
So what? We pakistanis experience similar or even more humiliating treatment by foreign embassies in Pakistan.
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Sep 06, 2017 09:59am
@Little Heart On what? Embassy attitude or Imran Tahir applying from a third country with entire family and incomplete documents.
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Sep 06, 2017 10:02am
Was he expelled from the high commission or did the time run out? There's a huge difference and no one should get preferential treatment just because they are a cricketer ! He's making an issue out of nothing just like celebrities do.
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Sep 06, 2017 10:13am
For once, I admire Ihsan Iqbal. Investigate the consulate staff and if found guilty, show them door! Take it to the logical end.
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Sep 06, 2017 10:14am
What Shame little Heart?? Imran tahir should adhere to normal process. He holds SA passport that means he is not visiting as a normal pakistani national and should be treated as person of another nationality.
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Sep 06, 2017 10:24am
Do south africa and uk issue visas to Pakistanis the same day? Are visas issued without proper documentation? Its not always us at the fault and we dnt need to be apologetic all the time.
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Sep 06, 2017 10:26am
5 hour wait and then been rejected due to incomplete documents?
Document check should always be the 1st step as it is everywhere and in this case incomplete documents is merely a reason by Pakistan consulate to cover their lethargic attitude toward work and system improvement.
Foreign office please take some baby steps at least on the front of digitization and advancements.
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Sep 06, 2017 10:32am
Pakistan need to improve standards in our embassies all around the world.
Most of the people working in these embassies are quite rude. This must improve
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Sep 06, 2017 10:32am
So there are two set of procedures; one for the commoners and unknown, and the others for whom the High Commissioner will intervene to make the staff by-pass the laid down procedure!
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Sep 06, 2017 10:43am
An eye opener! A serious reminder. Such complaints exist in almost all Pakistan consul offices all over the world. A humble request to the Interior Ministry for conducting a thorough assessment of all consul offices in foreign countries by an independent management consulting institution. The report should include suggestions to improve. Its time, we grow up!!
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Sep 06, 2017 10:44am
quote unquote.
"Responding to Tahir's complaint, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal said action would be taken against those responsible."
How About making a committee
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Sep 06, 2017 10:49am
@ga I would like to dispute over this opinion. In general, the staff is courteous and cooperative but there can be exceptions of minor levels. Mostly, it happens when the customers with incomplete documentation influenced by ego and superiority complex try to push and dictate to get their job done without understanding official obligations, and rules and regulations.
My personal experience is more than nice and I found the staff almost at all levels, understanding and helping. If someone is unhappy - the rules can be challenged not the staff.
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Sep 06, 2017 10:53am
@Mehdi Because he is not the type that listens to stories. He knows consulate behaviour was wrong, hence the apology
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Sep 06, 2017 10:54am
This is pathetic. If it was any other embassy, we would praise their professionalism but now it's ours and people complain just because they consider themselves vip... these VIP expectations should be managed...
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Sep 06, 2017 10:58am
Well, customer complaint should be treated with respect and taken in the spirit of improvement by the department concerned.
A suggestion to Ahsan Iqbal: Make the visa process through online application system (containing all documents and requirements for the application to eliminate ambiguity), declare service delivery cycle time and measure the success by %age of visa processed on time.
Similarly average "queue time per application" to be measured and published by the department.
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Sep 06, 2017 10:59am
It is common all over the world , people face same fate at the hands of political appointed staff they have no fear of being dismissed or thrown out of job. A nephew of mine had same fate at Consulate in Toronto.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:07am
If the reason given by consulate is true, then Imran should apologize for defaming an office of his country of origin.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:12am
@Mehdi He is sorry to "read the post" and will get it "investigated".
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Sep 06, 2017 11:12am
@ga I would like to dispute over this opinion. In general, the staff is courteous and cooperative but there can be exceptions of minor levels. Mostly, it happens when the customers with incomplete documentation influenced by ego and superiority complex try to push and dictate to get their job done without understanding official obligations, and rules and regulations.
My personal experience is more than nice and I found the staff almost at all levels, understanding and helping. If someone is unhappy - the rules can be challenged not the staff.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:16am
What a fuss??
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Sep 06, 2017 11:18am
This is disgraceful for the country.When you appoint nephews and uncles at foreign missions by the ruling party this is what you get in return. Appointments in foreign counties in Pakistan embassy should be from foreign service trained staff based on merits and qualifications only.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:24am
Ninety percent of Pakistan embassies in the UK are a shambles. No clear information or instructions for travelers rules changed on the go etc.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:25am
Unfortunately, this is a very common story of almost all Consulates and Embassies of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan all over the world. Imagine the plight of an ordinary hapless and helpless Pakistani left at the discretion of these so-called "movers and shakers" representing the only Islamic nuclear country of the world at various venues in different parts of the globe? The lesser said, the better.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:28am
People sent out by corrupt Pakistani foreign office abroad, are totally ill-mannered; this is the case all over abroad, once they have a posting they consider themselves above all laws. Even the local staff behaves like they are kings and have no manners in dealing with public and especially people of Pakistani origin. I hope this government takes note of this and bring in some decencies abroad, as these guys represent our Nation.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:28am
@Mehdi he is new interior minister :) I guess it is fair to investigate it. People who consider themselves privileged often get irked by the same behavior which is routine matter for mos of us.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:30am
Why did he needed a visa at first place? Didn't he had NICOP as he was Pakistani. I think when he got South African citizenship he and his family surrendered Pakistani Nationality.
Without supporting documents the wait was inevitable.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:30am
The most disturbing fact is that no action will be taken against the concerned Embassy staff. Nothing will change. It is business as usual and Pakistan will continue to suffer due to all such incidents.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:31am
If you want a taste of Pakistan and whats to come just firstly visit the Pakistan embassy anywhere in the UK and honestly that will be enough.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:35am
Pakistani embassies and consulates all across the globe are in very bad condition. Too many processes and procedures, lazy staff and very old shameful buildings. We have so many requirments and restrictions for tourist to visit our country. Old styled paper work mechanism. We should have E-Visa facility for all developed countries and countries with good GDP per capita.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:37am
@ga I would like to dispute over this opinion. In general, the staff is courteous and cooperative but there can be exceptions of minor levels. Mostly, it happens when the customers with incomplete documentation influenced by ego and superiority complex try to push and dictate to get their job done without understanding official obligations, and rules and regulations.
My personal experience is more than nice and I found the staff almost at all levels, understanding and helping. If someone is unhappy - the rules can be challenged not the staff.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:37am
@ga I would like to dispute over this opinion. In general, the staff is courteous and cooperative but there can be exceptions of minor levels. Mostly, it happens when the customers with incomplete documentation influenced by ego and superiority complex try to push and dictate to get their job done without understanding official obligations, and rules and regulations.
My personal experience is more than nice and I found the staff almost at all levels, understanding and helping. If someone is unhappy - the rules can be challenged not the staff.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:40am
Mr. Imran Tahir, rules are rules sir. Unfortunately by the time you reached the counter time is up so they told you the same. Consulate is wrong only if they have given you appointment for the visa and they have not fulfilled it. If this is not the case then you have no right to complain sir.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:45am
Pakistani embassies around the world have the most corrupt, ill-mannered and incompetent staff. Not helpful at all.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:47am
Nothing new, somebody should come and see the situation in other consulates. This guy got intervention and process done, consulates such as one in Dubai are in dismal state (built in a 1970 villa), with cracked walls and lazy staff.
We are put to shame by consulate everytime we go there spend hours in lines when the process should have been outsourced long back. We should learn from other states.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:49am
Our consulate staff are not Matians so don't expect any different behavior from them, yet at the same time Imran Tahir could have avoided this hassel by maintaing dual nationality or at least keeping a NICOP card. I ' m sure him and his wife both Pakistani origins have realtives living here.
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Sep 06, 2017 11:54am
our embassies represent a feudal country and the officials must demean their own people as in the country itself
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Sep 06, 2017 12:01pm
so this is the way they treat their overseas citizens.
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Sep 06, 2017 12:02pm
blowing own trumpet comes naturally to our neighbor, especially about their hospitality.
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Sep 06, 2017 12:03pm
On the contrary, Indian consulates help overseas Indians in every possible way, and the world acknowledges this fact.
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Sep 06, 2017 12:04pm
Similary situation "humiliating" at Pak Consulate, bad behavior, out of town and too far place, Pakistani are treat own citizen, staff are rude.
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Sep 06, 2017 12:05pm
so called legendary hospitality in its glory.
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Sep 06, 2017 12:38pm
I think it is absolutely unacceptable that South Africans who want to visit Pakistan are treated so rudely .
One of my friend from Capetown wanted to visit Pakistan and applied for visa .He was asked to come in person to Pretoria to apply for Visa.
May I request the Foreign office in Islamad to look into this
matter
South Africans Muslims people love Pakistan and have invest and visit Pakistan frequently.
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Sep 06, 2017 12:42pm
Why is he coming to play if he is not welcome? The team and its officials should protest and tell authorities that no player would ever come after this kind of treatment. IT, welcome home!
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Sep 06, 2017 12:52pm
Symbolic act...
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Sep 06, 2017 12:54pm
This is a common phenomenon with the so-called VIPs of sub-continental origin to produce inadequate documentation or no documentation at all. They want visas to be granted instantly by seeing their faces only.
The emassy staff need to follow the specified procedures. The matter should be investigated in a fair manner without favoring VIPS.
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Sep 06, 2017 12:58pm
Wellcome to Pakistan Imran Tahir
I am sure you will enjoy Pakistanis Hospitality when you go to Lahore
One of my friend was asked to go to Preitoria from Capetown to get his visa.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:02pm
It is honestly a shame & embarrassment how we overseas Pakistanis are treated in our own consulates & embassies and at Entry exit points of the country.
I have been treated much better by an Indian embassy in Pakistan then by a Pakistani embassy in UK & UAE.
Same goes for the Immigration Experience at the Airport... Immigration at New Delhi airport was more welcoming, smooth & swift even though I was travelling on a Pakistani passport then how we are treated at our own Airports.
It is high time people stand up for their rights, all travelers are equal but we as Overseas Pakistanis suffer so much just for being a Pakistani.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:11pm
Hehe. Welcome to Pakistan.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:14pm
@white noise Mate, I dispute with you. The quality of service at Sydney and Canberra are commendable and the staff is honest. I habe to say this as I have personally dealt with them and found exceptionally cooperative. I am not a relative or friend of anyone of them but they went all out in getting the needs fulfilled. The point is - do the customer have all the necessary documents and credentials
If we blame the staff perhaps being Paksitani that they are ill mannered or not friendly, please note the customers are also moslty Pakistani who have the near same manners. The solution is simple - pay respect and in return, get respect.
Mostly, the way people especially expats deal with Pakistani government servants working abroad on these missions - dominating and with pride. Same people when they visit Australian offices, remain extremely mindful and sensible - do as directed - they don't show their native attitude. Should they dare to try will learn a more painful lesson.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:30pm
I completely disagree, people queue in American embassies or others for hours and no body has guts to say anything , Imran Tahir is just taking it out on Pakistani consulate for no reason. If the timings are over they are over simple as that. Its an irony that we dont want to follow rules when it is Pakistan!!
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Sep 06, 2017 01:35pm
is imran above the law? he has been living in south africa which is a law-abiding nation, he is asking for extra preferences; this is ridiculous! and more ridiculous is the statement of mr ahsan iqbal, who without investigating the matter, has said that 'those responsible should be held accountable
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Sep 06, 2017 01:35pm
@Kashif that doesnt make it ok.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:35pm
My fellows Pakistanis - what has gone wrong with us - why we are so apologetic in the first place. Unfortunately, our enemies have made us so low in our own eyes that we actually feel shameful to everything thrown upon us.
Our enemies have used a stratgey to make us confused nation - the propaganda has worked. We have been made weak but we must not undermine ourselves. Every Pakistani should be proud of the land and the quality of people it produces. Yes there is some dirt in eyes which is distracting us - Pakistan will shine.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:38pm
You're just over exaggerating, it's normal delay at every consulate, all you wanted fame
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Sep 06, 2017 01:46pm
i can understand the reason
he has south african passport, hence he is south african
and south african at brics conferance signed declaration against terror org based in pakistan
not acceptable ,
as the staff said he had SA passport so need extra checking
The Pakistan High Commission in London clarified that Tahir was assisted by consulate staff and the issue had occurred because the cricketer and his family members held South African passports which required "additional processes".
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Sep 06, 2017 01:50pm
Imran Tahir should be more careful writing about his origin country, Just because he has moved to a different place does not give him a right to say anything against our country, He should not forget that once he was also a part of this system.
This news has given a bad name to our embassy & country. Whatever is the reason for the delay , He should've been more patience and respectful as all countries have their own way of working.'
The only thing I would say to Imran Tahir, You should've been more excited coming to your motherland not cranky.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:54pm
@Aamir Omair He is Pakistani South African.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:55pm
...i feel for him as I I endured the same thing many a time in London & in Dubai, these so called consulates look & operate very similar to how a refuge camp is run......
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Sep 06, 2017 01:57pm
@Aamir Omair totally agree.
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Sep 06, 2017 01:57pm
Totally agree
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Sep 06, 2017 01:58pm
@deepak NZ I agree
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Sep 06, 2017 02:08pm
@Aamir Omair Do our Pakistani cricketers get any privileges when they apply for the South African visa or UK visa from abroad (such as expedited services)? Would Imran receive the same privileges of direct submission for the Indian visa if he goes for the IPL or is he just expecting more from the Pakistani embassy?
u miss the point
he is pakistani origin, so u thought he would be wellcomed
plus no security risk as he is know, n comming to pak to play
is it so hard to understand
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Sep 06, 2017 02:17pm
@Kashif hahah, very well said.
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Sep 06, 2017 02:18pm
In contrast, forget about Indian origin people, Ms. Sushma swaraj attends to the visa requests even from Twitter and Indian high commission is as fast as sushma ji. Dont know when Pakistan will learn from India.
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Sep 06, 2017 02:19pm
As a general rule, one only can apply for visa in a country where one is resident or citizen. Since he was holding South African passport, he should not have been eligible. I think his VIP mentality cannot go away whether he obtains South African passport or other. And he can avoid applying for visa at all by getting NICOP. But again, VIP mentality...
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Sep 06, 2017 02:24pm
I live in Birmingham & I can confirm Birmingham office of Pakistan Embassy needs saking
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Sep 06, 2017 02:51pm
Wait a second why did Pakistan not send a special task force to process players visas poor show from government don't blame embassy officials who treat everyone the same and when they need to go home they will go home unless they are instructed not to
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Sep 06, 2017 03:04pm
Look at the broader picture, this guy Imran Tahir,trying to obtain a visa of a country and expecting that because he is a cricketer, he should get visa in few seconds , I guess every embassy in the. World has visa issuing process timing and if his and his family documents were not completed or application was filled correctly, delays may be expected.
Regarding he being humiliated, that's his personal frustration. He is Pakistani and I guess his family too, he should or must posses his Pakistani documents in order to avoid situations like this.
Thanks to high commission, knowing that Mr.Pakistani doesn't have all required docs but visa were issued on exception since he will be an important player in up coming tour.
I would say, it is very easy to pin point fingers, but coin has two. Sides..
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Sep 06, 2017 03:06pm
I am not surprised as this is a common problem at Pakistan Consulates across the world. I experienced similar problems visiting Birmingham consulate with a small child. We have to highlight and stand against this behaviour as the only way to improve. The society has to evolve if we want to have any respect globally.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:11pm
It seems from this episode that none apart from the High Commissioner had any brains.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:17pm
@Lilly Indians have some complex running in their minds. They do not spare any opportunity of self praise. This is absolutely not the place and event to promote anyone. Readers here, are from all over the world - do we see anyone else commentating like that.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:39pm
The story states: "The high commission also added that "the time taken in issuing visas was due to non-filling out of four applications, non-availability of supporting documents and additional processing required in respect of visas for holders of a third country".
If he cannot be bothered to complete the paperwork like us mere mortals, what does he expect? He should have been told to complete the paperwork and comeback the next day like we have to do. He does not deserve special treatment.
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Sep 06, 2017 03:43pm
The system, good or bad is for a purpose. Exploit it or bend it and this is what you get. If normal procedure for visa is via post then Imran should have applied via that route. I am also surprised that Ashan Iqbal is jumping to conclusions that action will be taken against those responsible. Do the investigation first and check the facts before saying action will be taken. Respect your country and its systems and don't try to bend them for anyone. Unfortunately we as a nation have picked up the bad habit of pleasing VIPS be it our own or foreign; no need to bend over backwards
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Sep 06, 2017 05:48pm
I have my doubts about Imran Tahir's side of the story. Perhaps he didn't follow all the instructions.
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Sep 06, 2017 05:49pm
I have been to Los Angeles consulate many times and very impressed with their service it's our people who are not prepared and show up without documents and forms and expected them to do their work. It's time to grow up people.
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Sep 06, 2017 06:00pm
Imaran is a famous player and people respect him for superior cricket. How ever if there was requirement for filling certain forms before visa was issued he should not take that as a humiliation. In the end he should be happy that the high commissioner went out of the way to help him.
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Sep 07, 2017 03:44am
Imran Tahir, why would someone do what you said was done. Thousands of peoples are visiting Pakistan Embassy all over the world, I don't remember having read in the recent past that someone who had just gone to apply for a visit visa to Pakistan faced such situation.
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Sep 07, 2017 08:00am
I think this is an communication error between the two parties. Pakistanis are follow the procedure while Imran demands some thing like protocol.
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Sep 07, 2017 08:13am
Imran it's not necessary to be privileged always. Although the consulate should be fare on working. Either Indian or Pakistani people always want to have some privileges.
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Sep 07, 2017 08:47am
Well, Mr. Imran Tahir, you are not any special case and If you did not fill out the application properly do not expect anything above and beyond. You need to understand and learn to respect the law of the country and there is nothing wrong with giving you hard time if you did not complete the visa application properly. So do not act like this and show some mature attitude. Those who are taking your side are just as ignorant as you are since no one should be above the law and should be treated according to the situation. You went to the consulate and act like you own this place so you got a proper treatment for your ignorance.
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Sep 07, 2017 09:49am
He left Pakistan cause of this treatment! It's just funny how it comes back to bite him!
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Sep 07, 2017 01:05pm
When International Cricket is returning to Pakistan, actions like these doing no good to Pak Cricket. I heard our consulate staff everywhere are very rude and arrogant. They need to be periodically trained for improving their attitude and approach.
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Sep 07, 2017 05:58pm
I can understand his frustration at the treatment he got, we all who live overseas and for any reason visit a Pakistani consulate/embassy go through this experience. I applied and paid for a NICOP in Washington DC about eight years ago, the NADRA webpage still indicates "being processed". My son applied for one about five years back and after being told t bring papers, one at a time, on the final day was thrown out of the embassy, even without being issued an official receipt, because the "hours were over". One just continues to pay the price of having been a Pakistani.
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Sep 07, 2017 05:59pm
@zubair It happens in India too. Make a committee. The committee will make several trips to UK and submit a wishy washy report. Based on this Committee's recommendation another committee will be formed to study PAK consulates in other countries.
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Sep 07, 2017 07:04pm
I think everyone faces these kind of delays irrespective of which country's consulate you are talking about. It's clear Imran Tahir was not well prepared for visa application and there would have been delays at any country's consulate. Pakistan Consulate accepted his application directly instead of Gerrys. So they were in fact nice to him at the start. Anyway, good work Mr. Ibn Abbas.
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Sep 07, 2017 11:27pm
@Combaticus Exactly!
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Sep 08, 2017 03:40am
I must say that Pakistan makes it very difficult for foreigners to get visas. Even western passport holders, who are in the habit of getting visas on arrival in other countries, face weeks of torment at Pakistani embassies. This must change if Pakistan wants to attract more tourists.
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Sep 08, 2017 05:00am
In 2010 me and my friend drove all the way from Edmonton To Vancouver Embassy to renew my Pakistani overseas card back in the days you had to go to the embassy personally to renew nowadays you can do it online so we've arrived there and waited for about 6 hours than one of the staff come out and said oh sir office hours are over and today our consulate general is absent as his signature are required to accept any application so please come back tomorrow to take back your overseas card we tried to explain to him we don't live here where are we going to stay tonight but all in vain he simply said i can't help you so we spend the whole night in my car in extremely cold weather as all motels were booked so you're lucky that atleast Pakistan interior minister apologized we didn't even get apology from any embassy staff
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Sep 08, 2017 05:27am
Why was Tahir expecting the visa the same day. As the High Commissioner pointed out it takes five working days to process the visa.
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