WASHINGTON – The US State Department has announced visa restrictions targeting Indian travel agencies and individuals allegedly involved in human trafficking and illegal immigration facilitation.
In an official statement, State Department spokesperson Tamie Bruce said that the restrictions will apply to the owners, executives, and senior officials of travel agencies operating within India. These agencies have been accused of knowingly facilitating unlawful immigration to the United States.
The US consular affairs teams and the Diplomatic Security Service said in coordination with the Indian mission in the US are working daily at American embassies and consulates to identify and take action against individuals and networks engaged in such illegal activities.
“The United States is committed to dismantling all networks involved in human trafficking, smuggling, and illegal immigration,” said Bruce.
She added that the visa restrictions will also apply to individuals who might otherwise be eligible under the Visa Waiver Program but are found to have supported or facilitated illegal immigration.
Highlighting the broader intent behind the policy, the spokesperson stated, “The objective of our immigration policy is not only to raise awareness among foreign nationals about the dangers of illegal immigration but also to hold accountable those who violate US laws,”.
The State Department emphasized that this policy is a firm step against individuals and entities involved in or aiding human trafficking, reaffirming the United States’ zero-tolerance stance on immigration-related crimes.
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