Immigration Frauds : Punjab Tales

 Introduction:

In Punjab, a dark cloud looms over many families dreaming of a better life abroad. Manpreet Singh's story, a young man from a humble farming background, highlights the pervasive issue of immigration fraud.

The Heart-Wrenching Story of Manpreet Singh:

Manpreet's family invested INR 15 lakhs (USD 18,000) with local immigration agents who promised him a job and visa to Canada. Months passed with no news, and the agents vanished, leaving the family in financial ruin and despair.

Additional Cases Highlighting the Crisis:

Numerous victims have come forward. Seven other people lodged police complaints, including Darshan Singh, cheated of ₹5.75 lakh, and Lovepreet Singh, defrauded of ₹2.5 lakh. Total losses amount to crores, devastating families and eroding community trust. Families lose their life savings, trust is shattered, and dreams are crushed. Parents, who hoped for better futures for their children, find themselves grappling with guilt and despair. 

Recent Frauds:

The dream of most Punjabis to reach foreign shores, especially Canada and the United Kingdom, is costing them dearly. In the past two days, the Punjab Police unearthed two massive immigration frauds worth at least Rs 2.78 crore, involving multiple victims in Ludhiana and Moga. In Khanna, a travel agent was booked after a woman alleged that her son was sent to Armenia instead of Germany, costing them Rs 9.50 lakh. In Ludhiana, an immigration firm owner, Madhvi Malhotra, reported a fraud worth Rs 1.87 crore after receiving fake Certificates of Sponsorship for clients applying for UK visas. She had to mortgage her assets to repay her clients. In Moga, police arrested a couple and their aides for duping employees and financiers under the guise of facilitating Canadian visas, with frauds totaling Rs 91.50 lakh.

Measures to Address the Issue :

1. The Punjab government has introduced the Prevention of Human Smuggling Act to regulate travel agents and curb their illegal activities.
2. The state is the only one in India to have a law called The Punjab Travel Professionals Regulation Act to ensure regulation of travel agents.
3. Police are taking immediate action whenever cases related to illegal migration come to their notice and have registered cases under relevant sections of the IPC and Immigration Act. 

Why This Issue Persists:

1. Lack of Awareness: Many are unaware of the proper procedures and risks.
2. Desperation and Hope: The promise of a better life makes people vulnerable.
3. Inadequate Regulation: Existing regulations are often insufficient.
4. Complex Legal Procedures: Victims face lengthy and complicated legal processes.

Government laws and Mechanism : 

In India, there are several laws and mechanisms in place to protect individuals from immigration fraud and to seek justice if they have been victimized. Here are some key provisions and rights:

1. Indian Penal Code (IPC) :

   - Sections 417 and 420 deal with cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property. These sections can be invoked in cases of immigration fraud.

2. Passport Act, 1967 :

     This act includes provisions to address offenses related to the misuse of passports and travel documents, which can be relevant in cases of immigration fraud.

3. Emigration Act, 1983 :

      This act regulates the emigration of Indian citizens and protects them from exploitation. It mandates registration of recruitment agents and provides for penalties for illegal recruitment practices.

4. Consumer Protection Act, 2019 :

       Victims of immigration fraud can file complaints under this act if they have been provided with deficient services by immigration agents or consultants.

5. Bureau of Immigration (BOI) :

      The BOI, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, handles immigration matters and can be contacted for issues related to immigration fraud.

6. Protections for Victims :

       Victims can approach local police stations to file FIRs (First Information Reports) against fraudulent immigration agents or consultants.

      The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has a dedicated grievance redressal portal called MADAD, where victims can register their complaints.

   - Complaints can also be filed with the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of immigration fraud in India, it's important to report the incident to the appropriate authorities and seek legal advice.

Conclusion:

Manpreet Singh’s story is a plea for leaders to protect their people’s dreams. By taking stringent measures, spreading awareness, and offering support, we can turn the tide against immigration fraud and ensure the hopes and aspirations of our youth are nurtured. This is not just a fight against fraud; it is a fight for the soul of Punjab and the future of its people. Let us come together to make a difference.

Reference: 

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/seven-lose-65-lakh-in-immigration-frauds-inchandigarh-101719078859643.html

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/chandigarh/seven-cases-of-immigration-fraud-in-chandigarh-633194

Blog written by Vikash Chaurasiya and Pranali Nankar