The portal allows citizens to apply for a PCC online, eliminating the need for lengthy paperwork and in-person visits to police stations. This digital initiative is expected to significantly reduce the processing time and provide greater convenience to the public.

The portal was launched on Friday at the Bhawani Bhawan in presence of senior CID officials. Dr R Rajasekaran ADG and IG CID, Vishal Garg, IG CID, Supratim Sarkar, ADG and IG (South Bengal), Sukesh Jain, IG Traffic, Akhilesh Chaturvedi, IG CID and Ajoy Kumar ADG and IG (Headquarters) were present during the launch.

“We are hopeful that the process, which used to take so much time (around 30 days), will be now completed within 72 hours and in a hassle free manner,” said Sukesh Jain, IG (traffic).

The process involves completing an online application form, uploading a photograph and necessary supporting documents, and paying a Rs 300 fee through netbanking, debit, or credit card.

Once the application and the fee are processed, the information is digitally forwarded to the relevant police station. Officers will then conduct a physical verification at the applicant’s address and carry out a comprehensive record check.

Upon completion of the verification process, a digitally signed PCC will be emailed to the applicant. An SMS notification will also be sent confirming the issuance or rejection of the certificate.

What is PCC

A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by the Police to certify that an individual has no criminal record or has not been involved in any criminal activity that resulted in a criminal conviction. This certificate is often required for various purposes such as immigration, employment, or residency in a foreign country.

How to Apply

An applicant has to visit the https://pcc.wb.gov.in, which is hosted by the State Data Center, and follow the steps given below:

· Click on ‘Apply for PCC’

· Share Mobile number for OTP

· Once you fill up the OTP, you will be directed to the application page

· Share your Aadhaar number

· Now, another OTP will be shared on the applicant’s Aadhaar-linked mobile number to check if it is a genuine application

· The applicant will be asked if the PCC is being asked for Visa or employment verification

· Further, applicant will be asked to share permanent address

· Then the applicant has to submit criminal and traffic record and select police verification

· Now the applicant will be asked to make payment of rupees 300

· The application will be sent to the local police station or the superintendent of the police where the application will be approved after a verification.

· With a digital footprint, a block chain will be created and the applicant will receive an SMS notification upon the completion of the process

The police said the CID is also working on developing a portal for tenant verification.