The UK government has launched the Visa Fraud Ton Bacho campaign to fight visa fraud and irregular migration of Indian citizens especially in Punjab. The initiative was launched in full swing at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Jalandhar and the Chancellor of LPU and Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal was present at the event. The campaign is designed to raise awareness and protect Indian citizens from the financial, emotional and physical consequences of false visa products. A major component is a dedicated WhatsApp hot line (+91 70652 51380) in English and Punjabi. Everyone who is registered on the helpline can report visa scams, check the legitimacy of migration routes and get help from the official representatives. Also, the initiative educates the public on the common fraud tactics including fake job opportunities in the UK, exemption from English language requirement (IELTS) and high costs of visas. On ground awareness campaigns will be done in Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Chandigarh to increase coverage. The UK government introduced Visa Fraud Ton Bacho as a part of Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement with India. Visa fraud not only causes financial losses but can also involve physical danger and a 10 year travel ban for offenders. The campaign builds on the joint effort of India and the UK to combat illegal migration. Christina Scott, the British Deputy High Commissioner to India, said that there are more and more opportunities to study, work and visit the UK, but criminals are taking advantage of people’s dreams. Caroline Rowett, British Deputy High Commissioner Chandigarh, appreciated Punjab’s hard working and ambitious people and reiterated UK’s determination to offer safe and legal routes for migration.
UK Launches Awareness Campaign to Protect Indians
