From dreams to detention: Haryana youths handcuffed, deported from US | Chandigarh News - The Times of India

Jind: Fourteen youths from Kaithal and three from Jind were handcuffed and deported by the US authorities after being found without legal travel documents. These youths allegedly travelled to the United States via the donkey route.Reportedly, 50 youths have been deported from the US to Haryana, all aged between 25 and 30 years.Among those deported from Kaithal are Naresh from Taragarh, Karn from Peedal, Mukesh from Aggarsain Colony, Ritik from Kaithal City, Sukhbir Singh from Jadaula, Amit from Habri, Abhishek from Bucchi, Mohit from Batta, Ashok Kumar from Pabnawa, Ashish from Serdha, Damanpreet from Habri, Prabhat from Sisla, and Satnam Singh from Dhand.Naresh Kumar, one of the 14 youths from Kaithal district deported from the US, told the mediapersons that they were handcuffed and brought to India on a flight from the USA. "I sold my agricultural land and paid an agent Rs 57 lakh to go to the US via the Panama jungle route. After spending 14 months in jail, I was deported," he said.He claimed that the agent kept extorting money from him at every border crossing. "The agent took Rs 42 lakh initially, then Rs 6 lakh in Guatemala, another Rs 6 lakh when I reached Mexico, and the rest of the amount when we crossed the border. But instead of helping me reach the US safely, they got me arrested and I was put in jail," Kumar revealed.He demanded strict action against the agent and appealed to others not to take the 'donkey route' to the US. "I urge everyone not to attempt to go to the US through this route. Strict action should be taken against the agent," Kumar added.Upasana, superintendent of police, Kaithal, told TOI that all the youths had been handed over to their families. Only one person was found with a criminal background. However, records are being checked thoroughly, she added.Kuldeep Singh, SP, Jind, informed that Ajay, son of Rajesh, resident of Bhairon Khera; Labjot Singh, son of Tehal Singh, resident of Nimnabad; and Naveen, son of Jogender, resident of Pilukhera, had gone to the United States through the donkey route.Now, these three youths have safely returned from the US and were received by a Jind police team under the supervision of DSP Sandeep Kumar. They were safely handed over to their families, said the SP.Kuldeep Singh said travelling abroad through the donkey route was a serious criminal offence and also tarnished the image of society. Such illegal journeys not only lead to financial loss but also pose a grave threat to life. In many cases, youth face physical abuse, fraud, and even death along the way, he added.Appealing to the residents, the SP said anyone who wished to go abroad should always do so through legal and proper channels. Before applying for a visa, verify the credentials of the agent or organisation thoroughly. Never fall for false promises made by unknown individuals. Travelling abroad illegally is not only a waste of money but also sends a negative message to society, said Kuldeep Singh.He further said the district police were keeping a close watch on such activities, and strict legal action would be taken against anyone trying to mislead youth through illegal routes.The SP also said the aim of the Jind police was not only to curb crime but also to create awareness among the citizens so that the youth choose the right path to achieve success and make the nation proud.MSID:: 124829306 413 |