Chandigarh, April 28
Taking serious note of increasing complaints involving consultants accused of cheating applicants, charging excessive fees and using unfair practices, the Punjab State and Chandigarh (UT) Human Rights Commission(PSHRC) has directed all deputy commissioners in Punjab and Chandigarh to submit detailed information on immigration agents operating in their districts by May 15. The commission has launched a statewide inquiry into alleged fraud and exploitation by immigration agents, amid growing concern that young people seeking work or study opportunities overseas are being misled and financially abused.
The commission members Justice Gurbir Singh and Jitender Singh Shunty, have directed the deputy commissioners asked to provide lists of registered and unregistered agents, rules governing their licensing, complaints filed against them, and the status of those cases. Officials must also identify blacklisted agents and disclose details of people sent abroad through these firms, including contact information and addresses. The commission has also sought information on agents allegedly running multiple offices under a single licence.
The commission said the exercise is aimed at improving transparency and accountability in a sector that has long attracted controversy in Punjab, where overseas migration remains a major aspiration for many families. The commission said the findings would help assess the scale of malpractice and guide recommendations to curb illegal and unethical activity, while protecting citizens from exploitation.
