In a significant move against fraudulent practices, the licenses of 40 travel agents in Amritsar have been revoked following revelations about agents charging exorbitant fees for illegal entry routes into various countries. This crackdown comes in the wake of a recent surge in deportations of Indian citizens from the US, with many reportedly having fallen prey to unscrupulous agents.
The operation was ordered by the Amritsar Deputy Commissioner as part of a wider initiative to ensure the integrity of travel services after over 300 Indians returned to the country on deportation flights this month.
Additionally, the Amritsar Police have issued notices to 271 travel agents who failed to renew their licenses, signaling a renewed focus on enforcement in the travel industry.
Sub-Divisional Magistrates have been tasked with inspecting the paperwork of travel agents and immigration consultants, while the district police have been instructed to report any grievances to the Deputy Commissioner’s office promptly.
Travel agents must now maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with documentation standards or face severe penalties for working without authorization.
Recent developments include a police reshuffle, with new personnel introduced to enhance oversight, indicating that further investigations may be underway.
FURTHER ACTION AGAINST AGENTS ANTICIPATED
Authorities are poised to intensify efforts against malfeasant travel agents in the upcoming days. The state government has established a Special Investigation Team to systematically target fraudulent agents within Punjab, spearheaded by high-ranking police officials who are actively tracking down these offenders.
As military flights continue to bring back deportees, the statistics reveal that 131 of the 345 individuals deported earlier this month hail from Punjab. However, only a small number have come forward to report their experiences, leading to a limited number of registered cases against travel agents thus far.
Officials are currently conducting thorough checks of travel agents’ paperwork across the state, alongside initiatives to educate the public on the perils of illegal migration and the importance of following legal protocols.
GOVERNMENT AND OPPOSITION RESPONSES
The Punjab government implements strict regulations on travel agents through the Travel Professions Regulation Act, which has resulted in thousands of cases against unlicensed operators since its establishment. Leaders have stressed the importance of accountability and transparency within the travel sector.
The NRI Minister emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing fraudulent activities, noting several FIRs filed against agents in recent weeks. Meanwhile, opposition representatives have highlighted the ongoing issue of migration for better opportunities, urging the creation of more favorable conditions to retain local talent.
Overall, authorities in Punjab are working diligently to regulate the travel industry and protect citizens from exploitation by unscrupulous agents.
