Punjab Police Target Illegal Immigration Firms After Surge in US Deportations

Punjab Police carried out massive raids at 1,274 immigration firms across the state in a decisive crackdown on illegal travel agents, officials revealed on Tuesday. The state-wide operation, conducted on Monday, aimed to protect young people from fraudulent agents who exploit their dreams of overseas opportunities. The Punjab Police crackdown on illegal travel agents reflects the government’s firm stance against those deceiving innocent citizens with false promises.

State-Wide Operation to Protect Youth

The extensive raids were conducted across all 28 police districts, signaling a coordinated effort to combat the growing menace of illegal immigration schemes. Special DGP (Law and Order) Punjab, Arpit Shukla, led the initiative, ensuring that all police commissioners and senior superintendents formed special teams under the supervision of gazetted officers to search immigration and travel firms.

Shukla emphasized that strict action would be taken against those violating the Punjab Travel Professionals’ Regulation Act, 2012 or engaging in fraudulent activities. He stated, “Our primary objective is to safeguard the youth of Punjab from being exploited by unscrupulous agents who promise foreign entry through illegal means.”

Raids Follow Recent US Deportations

This large-scale operation follows the recent deportations of Indian immigrants from the United States. Reports reveal that many deportees from Punjab and Haryana were deceived by travel agents who took substantial amounts of money but failed to facilitate legal entry into the US. Alarmingly, some were taken via the dangerous “donkey route” – an illegal pathway to America that poses significant risks to life and safety.

According to official data, 131 individuals from Punjab were among those deported from the US. The increasing cases of deception have raised concerns, prompting authorities to take immediate action.

Legal Action and Arrests

During the Punjab Police crackdown on illegal travel agents, 24 cases were registered, and seven agents were arrested. The arrested agents are under investigation for allegedly misleading people with false promises of overseas employment and permanent residency.

Police also scrutinized records and documents at the raided firms to verify compliance with the Punjab Travel Professionals’ Regulation Act, 2012. This act mandates travel agents to:

• Obtain a license from the Deputy Commissioner’s office, valid for five years.
• Display their license at their office.
• Maintain detailed records of clients and services provided.
• Inform authorities before advertising or conducting seminars.
• Operate strictly within their permitted scope of services.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in the suspension or cancellation of licenses, along with legal consequences.

High Court Intervention for Stricter Checks

The Punjab and Haryana High Court recently called for stricter checks on illegal travel agents. On February 17, the court directed the state government to take action against unauthorized immigration agents in response to a petition seeking better regulation of migration practices.

The petitioner suggested establishing “emigration check posts” in every district under the Emigration Act, 1983, to prevent illegal travel. Additionally, the plea called for publishing an updated list of certified recruiting agents and approved foreign employers, enabling individuals to pursue legitimate opportunities.

Alarming Rise in US Deportations

The raids in Punjab were partly prompted by an alarming rise in deportations from the US. According to official figures, 335 Indians have been deported since February 5, 2025, with 12 deported just last Sunday.

US President Donald Trump recently defended his administration’s mass deportations, emphasizing a strict stance against unauthorized immigration. During the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), Trump stated, “Illegal alien criminals are being sent home. We’re draining the swamp and restoring government by the people.”

Consequences of Illegal Immigration

Experts warn of severe consequences for individuals attempting to enter the US through illegal means. Those deported may face long-term restrictions on re-entry, even through legal channels.

Ajay Sharma, founder of Abhinav Immigration Services, explained, “There are limited legal pathways for those on illegal status. Even if they try to file under a permitted category, they must leave the country once to validate their new status. The probability of being denied re-entry is high.”

Jonathan Grode, US practice director at Green and Spiegel, added that options for those who entered illegally are minimal. He stated, “Employment sponsorship is not an option for those with illegal entry. The only real avenue is asylum, but that depends on a specific fear of harm in the home country.”

Government’s Commitment to Curbing Illegal Immigration

The Punjab Police crackdown on illegal travel agents demonstrates the government’s commitment to curbing immigration fraud. By enforcing strict regulations and taking legal action, the state aims to protect vulnerable individuals from falling prey to deceitful agents.

Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and verify the credentials of immigration consultants before engaging their services. Special DGP Arpit Shukla reiterated, “We will continue to take stringent action against those exploiting people’s aspirations. We encourage citizens to report any suspicious activity.”

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