Citizens availing government documents at the Maha e-Seva Kendra in Navi Mumbai find themselves prey to extortion by operators, prompting demands for swift action against those responsible.

Complaints have surged, alleging that Maha e-Seva Kendra officials are overcharging for services such as resident certificates, income certificates, new ration cards, and ration card certificates. Despite government-fixed rates, citizens report being coerced into paying exorbitant sums ranging from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2500.

Expressing dismay, citizens raise questions about the integrity of the system, particularly its impact on those unable to afford inflated fees. Some individuals reluctantly pay the extra amounts for the sake of convenience, while others face financial strain.

Sunil Wadkar, a concerned citizen, lamented, "This looting of common citizens persists, facilitated by local administration and corporators' cooperation with Maha e-Seva Kendra operators. The government's online website remains permanently closed. This exploitation of citizens must cease."

Responding to the outcry, Yuvraj Bangar, Tehsildar Thane, stated, "The government has established fixed rates for obtaining documents from the Maha e-Seva Kendra. Citizens should not succumb to operators' demands for additional payment. They should report such incidents to us, and appropriate action will be taken."

Citizens now demand immediate action from the administration to curb exploitation and hold accountable Maha e-Seva Kendra drivers involved in extortion. Additionally, there is a call for stringent inspections of all Maha e-Seva Kendras in Navi Mumbai suspected of overcharging. Advocates also propose the establishment of a toll-free complaint hotline to facilitate prompt responses from authorities.