As James mentioned, India now gets 60 day visa exempt entry. Sounds like your colleagues have old info or tried entering before the new rule came into effect.
For the op's info, CM immigration has been pretty empty so may be quick to get your answers from them. Also, there are two assistants just before going in that checks all the paper work and may be able to assist you.
Appears he is in Chiang Mai (Doi Saket). Friend just did his in Chiang Mai, his first extension based on retirement, with no problem. He just followed the list from them. Took him only an hour as it is not very busy here now.
There are 3 new short forms to fill out but they are for everyone doing extensions. 1 for requesting permission of stay, 2nd is list of penalties and 3rd don't remember. About 5 minutes to do them.