By Satnam Singh Chahal
Punjab, known for its rich heritage and agricultural strength, is now under the shadow of a distressing trend—illegal human smuggling. Locally referred to as "kabootarbaazi", this underground activity has become a flourishing business across the state. Thousands of people, especially young men, are falling into the trap laid by unscrupulous agents who promise them jobs, education, or permanent settlement in foreign lands. Fueled by desperation and the dream of a better life abroad, many Punjabis risk everything—money, safety, and even their lives—only to face fraud, exploitation, or deportation.
Human smuggling differs from human trafficking in that it often starts with the consent of the migrant. However, this consent is usually obtained through deceit or manipulation. Smugglers, known as "kabootarbaaz", lure vulnerable individuals with false promises of work visas, student admissions, or refugee status. In many cases, these victims—called "kabootars" in Punjabi slang—are transported through illegal and dangerous routes, often involving multiple countries. The journey, far from the promised comfort, can include being stranded in jungles, locked in shipping containers, or trafficked into forced labour.
This illegal migration racket has grown into a massive industry in Punjab. Estimates suggest that every year, between 10, 000 to 20, 000 people from the state attempt to migrate through illegal channels. Each pays between ₹25 lakh and ₹50 lakh to agents, hoping to reach destinations like the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Greece. The human smuggling business in Punjab is reportedly worth over ₹12, 000 crore annually. For many families, this involves selling land, taking loans, or mortgaging their future to fund these risky journeys.
The global context adds to the complexity of the problem. Human smuggling and trafficking are massive international industries generating billions of dollars annually. In regions like South Asia and the Middle East, the demand for cheap labour and the desire for better living standards fuel these illegal networks. Countries like Bangladesh and Nepal often serve as origin points, with India acting both as a destination and transit country. Within India, Punjab stands out due to its long-standing migration culture and strong overseas diaspora communities.
Local media and investigative reports have frequently exposed these illegal practices. News of young Punjabis going missing, getting detained at foreign borders, or dying in transit is not uncommon. While the media coverage has raised public awareness, the response from authorities has been inadequate. Law enforcement agencies often struggle to prosecute traffickers due to legal loopholes, corruption, or political interference. Many illegal agents continue operating with impunity, backed by a powerful network of middlemen and foreign contacts.
Several social and economic factors contribute to the rise of this phenomenon in Punjab. The state's worsening unemployment situation, ongoing agrarian crisis, and limited opportunities for young people have made migration seem like the only viable option. Moreover, there exists a strong social prestige associated with settling abroad. Families often pressure young members to migrate, equating foreign settlement with success and prosperity. This culture creates a fertile ground for traffickers who exploit the hopes and insecurities of people, especially in rural areas.
Another issue is the widespread presence of unauthorised travel agents who operate without licenses or accountability. Despite laws requiring registration and background checks, many agents continue to function illegally. There is a dire need for strict regulation and verification mechanisms to curb these operations. Public awareness campaigns are also essential, especially in small towns and villages, to educate people about the legal pathways of migration and the risks involved in illegal travel.
Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, the government must enforce strict action against fake travel agents and smuggling syndicates. Secondly, the victims of failed migration attempts must receive support—both psychological and financial—to reintegrate into society. Thirdly, creating local employment opportunities, vocational training programs, and rural development initiatives can help reduce the push factors that drive people to leave. Lastly, international collaboration is vital to dismantle transnational smuggling networks and ensure safe migration practices.
In conclusion, Punjab’s status as a hub of illegal human smuggling is a matter of deep concern. While the desire to seek a better future is understandable, the means to achieve it must be legal, safe, and informed. Without serious intervention and a shift in public mindset, thousands more may continue to fall into the trap of false promises and fraudulent agents. This is not just a legal issue—it is a humanitarian crisis that demands immediate and sustained action from both state and central governments, along with civil society and international agencies