UK Expands ‘Visa Fraud Se Bache’ Campaign to Haryana After Punjab and Tamil Nadu
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Chandigarh, Feb 26 (NationPress) Following the initiatives in Punjab and Tamil Nadu, the United Kingdom unveiled the 'Visa Fraud Se Bache' campaign in Haryana on Thursday, aimed at safeguarding Indian citizens from the physical, financial, and emotional dangers associated with visa fraud and irregular migration.
This campaign was inaugurated at an event in Sonipat, attended by Minister of State for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, Gaurav Gautam, alongside UK Home Office Acting Permanent Secretary, Simon Ridley.
Targeting the districts of Ambala, Kaithal, Karnal, and Kurukshetra, this initiative is executed in collaboration with the state government.
The campaign encourages potential travelers to the UK to confirm their information and remain cautious via a specialized WhatsApp chatbot (+91 70652 51380).
As part of this initiative, UK teams will engage in outreach activities in these regions, highlighting the warning signs of visa scams.
Individuals will be urged to remain vigilant against common fraudulent claims, such as guarantees of a visa and UK employment, assertions that no English-language tests (like IELTS) are necessary, and demands for exorbitant fees.
Haryana is the third Indian state to witness the launch of this campaign, which began as a pilot project in Punjab in February 2025 and was subsequently expanded to Tamil Nadu in December 2025.
Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India, emphasized that the extension of the 'Visa Fraud Se Bache' campaign to Haryana reflects the UK’s dedication to providing prospective travelers with accurate and reliable information.
“We aim for every applicant to understand that trustworthy guidance is accessible, that the UK values their ambitions, and that no one should fall prey to exploitation. I urge anyone considering a trip to the UK to utilize verified sources, including our WhatsApp chatbot, to ensure their safety and wellbeing,” she stated.
Alba Smeriglio, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Chandigarh, noted that preventing exploitation and irregular migration is a mutual priority for the UK and India.
“With resources like our Hindi-enabled WhatsApp chatbot, the UK’s Visa Fraud Se Bache campaign will assist individuals in Haryana in identifying and avoiding visa scams. We express our gratitude to the Haryana government and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini for their robust support and collaboration.”