Issue of Illegal Immigration
Many young Indians attempt "irregular migration" each year, often falling victim to human smuggling rackets.
Kabootarbazi refers to illegal migration or human smuggling, a lucrative, unlawful trade.
It primarily targets vulnerable youth from rural regions such as Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala, and Gujarat.
This illegal trade exploits young, vulnerable individuals who dream of a better life abroad.
Horrors of Human Smuggling
Migrants face severe exploitation, often being trafficked into forced labor or placed in dangerous situations (e.g., suffocating in containers, drowning, or being abandoned).
Survivors report horrific conditions such as lack of food, water, and sanitation, as well as witnessing others perish.
Human smugglers make huge profits while perpetuating violence and organized crime.
Lack of Legal Protection and Action
India's Emigration Act, 1983 does not address human smuggling or the risks associated with it.
There is a lack of a national law to combat human trafficking and smuggling.
Punjab has enacted the Travel Professionals Regulation Act, 2012 to regulate travel agents and combat kabootarbazi.
This law aims to curb illegal migration and fraudulent practices but suffers from poor implementation.
Need for Urgent Legislative Action
Parliament must enact a comprehensive national law to regulate human smuggling and protect migrants.
Punjab's law is a step in the right direction but needs better implementation.
A strong, central law could help control smuggling activities and prevent further loss of innocent lives.
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