• I Paid A Bribe
• 14 years ago
• 769 views

Bribe for buying laptop from abroad.

• Customs, Excise and Service Tax
• Customs Check and Clearance
• Paid INR 1,600

On arrival in the Bangalore International Airport, I was asked to pay an excess amount of customs charge without being provided the justification. When I protested, the customs officer reasoned saying either I pay the excess customs duty or pay a bribe of £20 (approx Rs 1600 at that point). Frustrated, I relented by paying the bribe.

Also, in the next counter, I was witness to a customs officer demanding a crate of drinks from a UK national.

This is in stark contrast to the respect one receives at the airports in foreign shores. It makes me sad to be an India on such occasions.