Panchkula: Man promised US visa, duped of ₹8 lakh

Jagtar Singh, a resident of Chandimandir in Panchkula, has lodged a formal complaint with the local police after losing ₹8 lakh to an alleged visa fraudster. The FIR states that Singh was first approached by Rajiv Kumar, a resident of Ambala district, who then introduced him to an individual known as Ajay Kumar. The agent claimed he could secure a United States visa for Singh’s son and demanded a total fee of ₹38 lakh. Singh said he paid ₹8 lakh before the agent stopped responding and eventually vanished, leaving the visa process incomplete and the promised service unfulfilled. Police have recorded the incident under provisions of the Indian Penal Code that address cheating and criminal breach of trust, though the exact sections have not been specified in the complaint. Investigators are reviewing the case and have asked Singh to provide any documentation, such as receipts, bank statements, or written communication, that could help establish the alleged fraud. Visa fraud schemes have been reported in the region on several occasions, with families often misled by individuals posing as agents who promise swift and guaranteed placement abroad for a price far exceeding official fees. These incidents highlight a recurring pattern where large sums are extracted under the pretense of complex immigration procedures that are actually managed by government authorities. The official fee for a United States visa is substantially lower than the ₹38 lakh demanded by the agent, a discrepancy that authorities say clearly indicates a scam. Legitimate visa applications are processed through the U.S. Embassy or consulate and involve standard documentation and modest fees, not large cash payments to private agents. Singh expressed concern about the financial loss and the impact on his family’s future. The police have urged anyone with information about the suspect or the alleged agent to come forward, emphasizing that timely reporting can assist the investigation and potentially prevent further victimisation. Singh has been instructed to preserve any evidence, including photographs, messages, or transaction records, which may be crucial for building a solid case. If convicted, the individuals involved could face imprisonment under Section 420 of the IPC, which prescribes up to three years of jail and a monetary penalty, as well as additional charges under Section 467 for forgery of valuable security. The local police station has issued a public advisory reminding residents to verify the credentials of any visa consultant, to request official receipts, and to avoid cash transactions that lack a paper trail. Neighbourhood leaders in the area have expressed concern and are encouraging residents to share information with the police to help curb such scams.

Source: Hindustan Times