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Tax / GST / customs

Customs or airport harassment

Unfair cash demands or harassment at customs, airport, or border checks.

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Who this is for

Travellers facing illegal cash demands during customs checks.

Real life (simple)

  • At an airport counter, someone asks cash to “clear” a normal bag without a written reason.
  • Real-life move: ask for the written ground of seizure/hold. Note badge/time. Complain to customs grievance after you are safe.

What to do (step by step)

  1. Stay calm. Do not argue loudly in a restricted area.
  2. Ask for the officer name and written reason for any demand.
  3. Pay only official duties through the prescribed channel with a receipt.
  4. Note flight number, time, counter, and what was said.
  5. Complain to airport grievance or customs grievance after you are through.
  6. Use CPGRAMS for the customs department if needed.

Tips

  • Keep written proof.
  • Ask for acknowledgement numbers.
  • Escalate if there is silence.

Warnings

  • Do not use violence.
  • Do not send private files to Trishola. Stay on official portals.

Working links

Ready drafts

Replace words inside [BRACKETS] with your details. Then send it yourself. We do not collect your data. Hindi draft is available for this guide.

1) Email draft

Subject: Complaint regarding customs or airport harassment at [PLACE] on [DATE]

Respected Sir/Madam,

I am writing about customs or airport harassment.

Date: [DATE]
Place: [PLACE / DISTRICT / STATE]
Details: [SHORT FACTS]
What I already did: [STEPS TAKEN]

I request proper enquiry and action as per law.

Name: [YOUR NAME]
Address: [YOUR ADDRESS]
Phone: [YOUR PHONE]
Email: [YOUR EMAIL]

Thank you.
[YOUR NAME]

2) Letter draft

To,
The Commissioner of Customs / Airport Grievance Officer
[DISTRICT / STATE]

Subject: Complaint regarding customs or airport harassment

Respected Sir/Madam,

On [DATE] at [PLACE], [SHORT FACTS].

I request enquiry, written status, and action as per law. I am ready to cooperate.

Yours sincerely,
[YOUR NAME]
[ADDRESS]
[PHONE]
Date: [DATE]

Links checked: 2026-07-20. This is public civic information, not legal advice. Stay peaceful and lawful.

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