Department of Posts Allows Email-Based Authorization for Third-Party Delivery of Accountable Postal Articles, Subject to Verification
Department of Posts Clarifies Rules for Third-Party Delivery of Accountable Postal Articles
The Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, Government of India, has issued a clarification regarding the acceptance of authorization letters received through post or email for the delivery of accountable postal articles to designated third parties, particularly in cases involving Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
Download Clarifies Rules for Third-Party Delivery of Accountable Articles in PDF
The clarification was issued by the Mail Operations Division, Department of Posts, New Delhi, through Letter No. 39-04/2019-D (Pt.) dated 22 September 2026, in response to a communication received from the Tamil Nadu Circle.
The decision aims to ensure operational flexibility, reduce public grievances and, at the same time, safeguard the security of postal articles entrusted to the Department of Posts.
Authority to Accept Authorization Letters
As per the clarification, the decision to accept an authorization letter received through traditional post or digital modes, including email, will rest at the discretion of the concerned Supervisor, Assistant Postmaster (APM) or Postmaster of the nodal delivery centre or Post Office.
This provision enables the competent postal authority to examine individual cases and decide whether the authorization can be accepted for delivery to a designated third party.
Verification of Identity and Authenticity
The Department has emphasized that acceptance of such authorization requests must be subject to thorough verification. The identity and address documents of both the addressee and the designated third-party representative must be verified to establish the authenticity of the request before delivery.
In cases involving NRIs, relevant passport and NRI credentials, wherever applicable, must also be examined as part of the verification process.
The measure is intended to prevent unauthorized delivery, maintain accountability and protect the interests of customers while facilitating genuine requests.
Balancing Public Convenience and Postal Security
The clarification seeks to strike a balance between customer convenience and the security requirements associated with accountable postal articles. By allowing authorization letters received through both physical and electronic modes, the Department aims to provide greater flexibility, particularly to customers who may be residing abroad or unable to collect their articles personally.
At the same time, the responsibility placed on the concerned postal authorities ensures that delivery is made only after the necessary checks have been completed.
The communication states that the decision has been issued with the approval of the competent authority.
Key takeaway: Authorization letters received by post or email for delivery of accountable postal articles to designated third parties may be considered at the discretion of the concerned postal authority, subject to thorough verification of the identity, address and authenticity of the authorization.