The 'kabootarbaazi' trap: Why Haryana’s youth is risking it all for foreign dreams

Immigration fraud, commonly known as kabootarbaazi, is becoming increasingly prevalent in Haryana. Karnal, in particular, and its surrounding districts have emerged as hotbeds of the menace. The recent deportation of youngsters from the US had brought to light the ugly face of immigration fraud — a network of unscrupulous agents preying on vulnerable dreams.What is immigration fraud?Immigration fraud refers to unregistered or illegal travel agents cheating people through false promises of overseas employment, education, or settlement. Victims are often promised high-paying jobs or quick visas but end up either stranded abroad, deported, or defrauded of large amounts of money.How severe is the problem in Haryana?The scale of immigration fraud in Haryana is deeply concerning. Several FIRs have been registered across the state, and many agents involved in duping the state’s youngsters have been arrested. This highlights not only the scale of illegal immigration, but also the desperation of thousands of young people, who are willing to risk everything for the dream of a better life abroad.What is the situation in Karnal?Despite Karnal being a progressive and urbanised district, several of the its youngsters are falling prey to fraudulent agents, who lure them with fake promises of jobs, education, and settlement in countries such as the US, Canada, and the UK. As per official data, 144 cases of immigration fraud have been registered in the district this year (as of July 8, 2025). A majority of these victims were lured on the pretext of overseas job opportunities and promises of a secure future. The police have arrested 77 persons in connection with 142 of the 144 cases this year so far. Over the years, immigration fraud in the district has shown a concerning rise. In 2020, a record 234 FIRs were registered, and the police arrested 242 persons — solving 215 cases. In 2021, 63 FIRs were registered, with 43 arrests and 59 cases solved. In 2022, 101 cases were registered, out of which 90 were solved, and 80 people were arrested. In 2023, police registered 93 FIRs, arrested 99 individuals, and solved 86 cases. In 2024, the number again surged with 142 cases registered, 126 arrests, and 129 cases solved.Why are youths falling into this trap?The growing number of immigration fraud cases in Haryana reveals the vulnerability of the state’s youth. Several factors are pushing them toward illegal immigration and fraudulent agents. The primary reason is the dream of a better life abroad, with promises of higher salaries, improved quality of life, and better opportunities. Many are influenced by friends or relatives settling overseas, which fuels their desire to follow in their footsteps. Another factor is the lack of awareness about legal immigration processes. Many young people, unfamiliar with official procedures, fall for shortcuts offered by unauthorised agents. These agents aggressively sell dreams of guaranteed visas, jobs, or quick admissions. Adding to the issue is the high rate of unemployment and underemployment, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. With limited local opportunities, desperate youth see migration as the only escape — often without verifying pathways.Why are youngsters taking the ‘donkey route’?The ‘donkey route’ is an illegal and risky way to enter countries like the US, and has become common among Haryana’s youth. This way involves crossing multiple countries on foot. Young aspirants are lured by agents promising quick entry, high-paying jobs, and eventual citizenship. Many fall into the trap due to visa rejections, lack of eligibility under legal routes, or desperation for a better future. These agents, charging Rs 20-50 lakh per case, paint a false picture of success, and downplay dangers. Several tales of horror have revealed that the ‘donkey route’ is not a safe shortcut, but a life-threatening gamble — one that ends in misery more often than success.What should people do to stay safe?Those wishing to move abroad should verify agent credentials on the Ministry of External Affairs website, and avoid agents who promise “guaranteed visas” or “shortcuts”. People must insist on receipts and agreements for all transactions, must report suspicious agents to the police, and choose only registered immigration consultants.

The 'kabootarbaazi' trap: Why Haryana’s youth is risking it all for foreign dreams

Parveen Arora

Tribune News Service

The 'kabootarbaazi' trap: Why Haryana’s youth is risking it all for foreign dreams

Parveen Arora

Tribune News Service

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