Introduction
The allure of settling abroad has long captivated the aspirations of Indian youth, particularly in states like Punjab and Haryana. Countries such as Canada, the USA, the UK, and Australia are often perceived as lands of opportunity—promising better earnings, safer living conditions, and brighter futures. However, this intense desire has also given rise to a perilous and illegal practice known as “Dunki”—a term now synonymous with immigration fraud and dangerous illegal migration, leading to shattered dreams, financial ruin, and even loss of life.
This blog explores what Dunki is, the reality of immigration fraud in Punjab and Haryana, how fraudsters operate, the legal consequences of illegal immigration, and most importantly, the legal remedies and protections for victims.
What is Dunki?
“Dunki” (ਡੰਕੀ) is a colloquial Punjabi term referring to the illegal entry into foreign countries without valid documentation. Often called the “donkey route,” it involves treacherous journeys through multiple countries—such as those in South America, Africa, or the Middle East—before reaching destinations like the U.S. or Europe. These routes may include perilous travel by foot, boat, or the use of counterfeit documents.
Though an unofficial term, Dunki has gained notoriety due to real-life cases, Bollywood depictions (such as Shah Rukh Khan’s film Dunki), and frequent news reports of Indians being detained, deported, imprisoned, or even dying en route.
Why Punjab and Haryana?
Punjab and Haryana are among the largest contributors to global immigration, making them hotspots for Dunki-related frauds. Key factors driving this trend include economic distress due to rising unemployment and agricultural crises, cultural influence where migration is seen as a pathway to success, exploitation by fraudulent agents who promise easy visas, and lack of awareness about legal immigration processes.
How Immigration Frauds Are Executed
Fraudulent agents, posing as legitimate “travel consultants,” employ deceptive tactics such as guaranteeing visas (a red flag—no agent can legally promise this), fabricating documents like fake IELTS scores or bank statements, charging exorbitant fees (typically between ₹10–30 lakhs), facilitating illegal routes through dangerous transit countries, and often abandoning victims abroad.
Real-Life Tragedies
- Case 1: Jalandhar Youth Dies in Mexico Jungle – A 22-year-old from Punjab died of exhaustion while attempting to cross into the U.S. illegally. His family had paid ₹17 lakhs to a local agent.
- Case 2: Mass Deportation from Canada – Over 700 students from Punjab were deported after Canadian authorities discovered their admission letters were forged. Shockingly, many were unaware their agents had submitted fake documents.
- Case 3: Karnal Family Detained in Serbia – A family of four from Haryana was arrested in Serbia for entering with fake Schengen visas, intending to illegally migrate to Germany.
Legal Consequences of Dunki & Illegal Immigration:
Legal Consequences Under BNS (2023)
For Agents/Fraudsters:
- BNS Section 316 (Cheating) – 7 years imprisonment
- BNS Section 324 (Forgery) – 3-7 years + fine
- BNS Section 125 (Organized Crime) – 5 years-life imprisonment
- BNS Section 147 (Human Trafficking) – 10 years-life
For Illegal Migrants:
- BNS Section 141 (False documentation) – Up to 3 years
- BNS Section 152 (Visa fraud) – 5 years + fine
Victim Remedies
1️⃣ FIR under BNS Sections 316/324
2️⃣ Complaint to MEA’s Emigration Division
3️⃣ NRI Police Cell (Punjab/Haryana)
4️⃣ Recovery Suit in District Court
5️⃣ Cyber Crime Complaint for digital fraud
Illegal immigration is not just a crime—it risks lives, careers, and family stability.
Legal Remedies for Victims
If you or someone you know has been defrauded, take these steps:
✅ File an FIR (including charges under BNS for organized crime).
✅ Complain to the Protector General of Emigrants (MEA).
✅ Approach NRI Police Cells (Punjab/Haryana).
✅ Initiate recovery suits against fraudulent agents.
✅ File a consumer complaint if a registered agent is involved.
✅ Report to Cyber Crime Cell if fraud occurred online.
Document all evidence—payment receipts, WhatsApp chats, emails, and travel records—to strengthen your case.
How to Avoid Immigration Fraud
🔒 Never trust “100% visa guarantee” claims.
🔒 Verify agents on the MEA’s official portal.
🔒 Avoid cash payments—demand official receipts.
🔒 Cross-check job/study offers directly with institutions abroad.
🔒 Consult a legal advisor before signing any immigration documents.
Awareness Is the First Step
While governments in Punjab and Haryana have launched awareness campaigns, and Bollywood has highlighted the issue (Dunki), hundreds still fall victim monthly.
As responsible citizens, we must:
- Educate communities on legal migration.
- Report fraudulent agents.
- Provide legal aid to victims.
- Advocate for safer, legal migration channels.
Conclusion
Dunki is not a shortcut—it’s a life-threatening trap. While the dream of going abroad is valid, the path must be legal, safe, and ethical. Families must reject unverified agents and opt for lawful immigration processes.
For victims, justice is possible—but only if you act swiftly.
Legal Assistance by B S Makar, Advocate
I am B S Makar, Advocate at the Punjab & Haryana High Court, and Founder of B S Makar Advocates and Solicitors, Mohali. We specialize in immigration fraud cases, legal action against fake agents, recovery suits, and assistance for deportation victims.
📞 Contact: 9878131111
🌐 Website: www.makarlaws.com
🏛️ Firm: B S Makar Advocates and Solicitors, Mohali