UK Launches Campaign Against Visa Fraud in India
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Synopsis
The UK government has initiated the 'Visa Fraud Ton Bacho' campaign to safeguard Indian citizens from the dangers of visa fraud and irregular migration. The campaign includes a WhatsApp support line and aims to raise awareness about common scams, fostering safe and legal travel routes to the UK.
Key Takeaways
- Dedicated WhatsApp support line for scam identification
- Awareness of common visa fraud tactics
- Legal routes for travel to the UK
- Consequences of engaging in visa fraud
- Joint efforts with India to combat irregular migration
Jalandhar, Feb 27 (NationPress) The UK government has officially launched the ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ campaign aimed at safeguarding Indian citizens from the physical, financial, and emotional dangers associated with visa fraud and irregular migration.
This initiative features a new dedicated WhatsApp support line (+91 70652 51380) available in English and Punjabi, designed to help individuals recognize common visa scam strategies and provide access to official information for those pursuing legal travel options to the UK.
The campaign was inaugurated at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in the presence of LPU Chancellor and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, Ashok Kumar Mittal.
In addition to the WhatsApp support line, the initiative will emphasize the warning signs of visa scams. Individuals will be cautioned about prevalent deceptive claims, such as guarantees of jobs in the UK, absence of English-language test requirements (IELTS), and exorbitant fees. Visa fraud can lead to significant and unnecessary debt, exposing individuals to physical danger and exploitation.
A person caught engaging in visa fraud may face a 10-year travel ban to the UK. Under the Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement, the UK and India are jointly committed to addressing irregular migration.
This campaign forms part of ongoing efforts to intensify the battle against visa fraud and irregular migration.
Christina Scott, the British Deputy High Commissioner to India, stated: “The opportunity to visit, study, and work in the UK has never been greater, and Indian nationals continue to hold the largest share of UK visit and work visas. Unfortunately, the dreams of young people are being exploited, leading many to fall victim to visa fraud. That’s why we are launching the Visa Fraud Ton Bacho campaign. It aims to increase awareness of the risks and assist people in verifying the facts regarding safe and legal travel routes to the UK.”
Caroline Rowett, British Deputy High Commissioner Chandigarh, remarked: “Punjab is recognized for its diligent and ambitious individuals who have made remarkable contributions in the UK and worldwide. We want to ensure that these aspirations are realized safely and legally. We encourage everyone to disseminate the message of ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ to help protect individuals from fraudulent agents.”
