Explainer: Immigration fraud in Haryana, a dark reality behind foreign dreams
Immigration fraud, commonly known as ‘kabootarbaazi’, has become a booming racket in the region, and Haryana particularly Karnal and surrounding districts have emerged as hotspots. The recent deportation of youth from the US had brought to light the ugly face of immigration fraud, a network of unscrupulous agents preying on vulnerable dreams.
Here is an in-depth report to understand what’s happening, how it works and why it matters – especially for youth and their parents.
What is immigration fraud?
Immigration fraud refers to the practice of cheating people through false promises of overseas employment, education, or settlement by unregistered or illegal travel agents. Victims are often promised high-paying jobs or quick visas, but end up either stranded abroad, deported or defrauded of large sums of money.
How big is the problem in Haryana?
The scale of immigration fraud in Haryana is deeply concerning. Several FIRs have been registered across the state, in which a number of agents involved in duping youth had already been arrested. The registration of number of cases highlights not only the scale of the illegal immigration network, but also the level of desperation among thousands of young people who are willing to risk everything for the dream of better life abroad.
What is the situation in Karnal?
Despite being a progressive and urbanised district, youth in Karnal are falling prey to fraudulent agents who lure them with fake promises of jobs, education and settlement in countries like the US, Canada, UK and Europe. According to official data, as many as 144 cases of immigration fraud have been registered across the district till July 8 in this year, with the majority of victims 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. Over the years, the trend of immigration fraud in the district has shown a concerning rise. In 2020, a record 234 FIRs were registered, and the police arrested 242 people, successfully solving 215 cases. In 2021, 63 FIRs were registered, with 43 arrests and 59 cases solved. The year 2022 saw 101 cases, 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 the trap?
The growing number of immigration fraud cases in the state reveals the vulnerability of the youth. Several factors are pushing them towards illegal immigration routes and fraudulent agents. The primary reason is the dream of a better life abroad, with promises of higher salaries, improved living standards and better opportunities. Many are influenced by watching friends or relatives settle overseas, which fuels the desire to follow in their footsteps. Another factor is the lack of awareness about legal immigration processes. Many young people are unfamiliar with the official procedures and fall for shortcuts offered by unauthorised agents. These agents operate freely and aggressively sell dreams with the promise 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 the results.
Why youths are 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 route involves crossing multiple countries on foot or through human smugglers. Young aspirants are lured by agents promising quick entry, high-paying jobs and eventual citizenship. These agents, charging Rs 20 to Rs 50 lakh, paint a false picture of success and downplay the dangers. Several incidents in the past and tales of horror narrated by youth revealed that the 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?
People should verify agent credentials on the MEA website and avoid agents who promise ‘guaranteed visas’ or ‘shortcuts’. Youth must insist on receipts and agreements for all transactions. They must report suspicious agents to the police and choose only registered immigration consultants.
Haryana Tribune