Daijiworld Media Network- Washington
Washington, May 20: In a significant move aimed at curbing human smuggling networks, the United States on Monday announced visa restrictions on owners, executives, and senior officials of several travel agencies in India allegedly involved in facilitating illegal immigration to the US.
In an official statement, the US State Department declared, “The Department of State is taking steps today to impose visa restrictions on owners, executives, and senior officials of travel agencies based and operating in India for knowingly facilitating illegal immigration to the United States.”
The development underscores growing US concerns over the rising number of undocumented migrants, with American authorities stating they are working closely with Indian consulates to identify and act against culprits engaged in human smuggling and trafficking operations.
“Mission India’s Consular Affairs and Diplomatic Security Service are actively working across our Embassy and Consulates to target those engaged in such operations,” the statement emphasized.
The crackdown aims to cut off the support system of global illegal immigration networks, sending a strong message that travel agencies facilitating unlawful migration will face serious consequences, including visa ineligibility for their key personnel.
The statement further highlighted the dual focus of US immigration policy — educating foreign nationals about the risks of illegal immigration while holding facilitators accountable under American law.
This move follows mounting pressure on US authorities to act decisively amid ongoing political debate over immigration enforcement. In this context, former US Border Czar Tom Homan recently criticized President Joe Biden for allegedly dismantling Trump-era border security measures, claiming:
“President Biden inherited the most secure border in my lifetime, and he unsecured it on purpose. That is a fact.”
Citing internal studies, Homan noted that illegal immigration had dropped by 96% under Trump’s initial policies, which he said helped curb sex trafficking and abuse, especially of women crossing illegally into the US.
While the latest visa restrictions focus on India-based agencies, the US has hinted at expanding this policy globally, targeting anyone involved in aiding or abetting unauthorized entry into the country.
As the situation evolves, Indian authorities are yet to officially respond to the US action, which could have broader implications for bilateral ties and cross-border mobility.