24 FIRs, 1,274 raids: Punjab cracks down on travel agencies

In a major crackdown on illegal immigration following the deportation of Punjabi migrants from the US, the Punjab Police on Tuesday registered 24 FIRs after raiding 1,274 immigration firms and travel agencies across the state. Seven travel agents were arrested for alleged fraudulent activities.

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The operation, overseen by Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla, was initiated on the orders of DGP Gaurav Yadav. It aimed at protecting young people aspiring to settle abroad from falling prey to unscrupulous travel agents, in line with the directives of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

The raids were conducted simultaneously across all 28 police districts from 11 am until late evening on Monday. This action follows the recent deportation of Indian nationals, including over 100 Punjabis, from the US earlier this month, which raised serious concerns about the operations of illegal travel agents in the region.

Based on complaints from deportees, more than 12 FIRs were filed against travel agents operating in Punjab, Haryana and New Delhi. ADGP Shukla emphasised that all commissioners of police (CPs) and senior superintendents of police (SSPs) were directed to take strict action against agents found violating the Punjab Travel Professionals Regulation Act, 2012. This includes those who deceive individuals with false promises of facilitating illegal entry into foreign countries.

Under the 2012 Act, travel agents are required to obtain a licence from the Deputy Commissioner’s office, which is valid for five years and renewable thereafter. Licensed agents must prominently display their licence, maintain detailed client records and inform the authorities before advertising or conducting seminars.

They are prohibited from engaging in unauthorised activities, such as human smuggling or illegal emigration assistance. Non-compliance can result in licence suspension or cancellation, along with legal action.

To further address the issue, the DGP has established a four-member special investigation team (SIT), led by ADGP (NRI Affairs) Praveen Sinha, to investigate complaints of deportees and take necessary legal action.

ADGP Shukla urged citizens to remain vigilant and verify the credentials of travel agents before sharing documents or making payments. “Only engage with agencies that hold a valid licence issued by the deputy commissioner under the Punjab Travel Professionals’ Regulation Act, 2012,” he advised.