Crackdown on Fake Travel Agents Intensifies in Punjab Under CM Mann’s Orders

The Punjab government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has intensified its crackdown on fraudulent travel agents following strict directives to take action against those involved in illegal immigration scams. In a major move, district authorities have issued notices to 52 travel agencies and IELTS coaching centers, warning them to comply with legal regulations or face license cancellation. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies in Amritsar and Tarn Taran have registered fresh cases against two travel agents based on complaints from individuals deported from the United States.

The increased scrutiny on travel agencies comes in response to a growing number of deportations of Indian nationals, particularly from North America. Authorities in Amritsar have launched targeted raids in search of those responsible for duping desperate job seekers and students with false promises of settling abroad. In one such case, an individual returning from the United States filed a complaint, revealing that they had paid a staggering amount to a fraudulent agent who failed to deliver on their promises. A similar incident in Tarn Taran has led to the registration of another case against a travel agent based in Delhi, who allegedly extorted a large sum from an aspiring migrant.

To curb such fraudulent activities, the Deputy Commissioner’s office has issued renewed warnings to coaching centers and travel firms, emphasizing the importance of license renewals. Under revised regulations, businesses engaged in overseas education and travel consultancy must comply within 15 days of receiving a notice. Unlike previous enforcement measures, where three separate warnings were issued over 45 days, the current administration has streamlined the process, taking a stricter approach. So far, 35 establishments have had their licenses revoked due to non-compliance.

The crackdown is being carried out under the provisions of the Punjab Travel Professionals Regulation Act, 2012, which was introduced after a series of immigration fraud cases and reports of Indian citizens being stranded or exploited abroad. Under this law, any business operating as a travel agency, airline ticketing service, or IELTS coaching center must obtain a license from the administration. The licensing process requires a significant fee, proof of residence, an Aadhaar card, three years’ worth of income tax returns, a police verification report, and clearance from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office. Businesses involved in multiple categories, such as travel services and coaching, must pay a higher license fee.

The law stipulates severe penalties for violators. Unlicensed agents and institutions caught operating illegally can face fines of up to five lakh rupees and imprisonment for up to six years. Despite these stringent measures, fraudulent travel agents continue to exploit unsuspecting individuals, particularly young people eager to migrate for better opportunities. Victims of such scams often face serious consequences, including financial loss and deportation after reaching foreign shores through illegal means.

With the growing public outcry over immigration fraud, there is an urgent need for stricter monitoring of travel consultancies and IELTS coaching centers. According to regulations, all registered businesses must display their license numbers prominently on their office premises and in all advertising materials, including print and digital media. However, many fail to adhere to this requirement, raising concerns about the authenticity of their operations.

The broader issue of immigration fraud also brings into focus the lack of employment opportunities within the country. Many experts argue that if the government creates more job prospects domestically, fewer young people would feel compelled to seek work abroad, often at the risk of falling victim to fraud. The push for better employment policies and stricter law enforcement remains crucial in addressing the root cause of illegal migration and ensuring that Indian citizens do not become easy prey for unscrupulous agents promising them a dream life overseas.

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